How to Play Mah Jong Solo
The traditional game of mah-jongg requires four players and follows a complicated set of rules. The solitaire version of mah-jongg is a newer and simpler game, most commonly played on computers -- the first version was reportedly created in 1981 on a mainframe computer in Illinois. Solitaire mah-jongg has become immensely popular. While it is easy to learn, it is engrossing to play, calling on a player's skills in strategy, memory and concentration. The game is usually relaxing, rather than stressful, though timed versions can give you a shot of adrenalin.
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Instructions
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Examine the board. Look for tiles that do not have any other tiles on top of them and have at least one side, on the left or the right, where no other tiles are touching them. These are "free" tiles. You are allowed to remove only free tiles -- and only when you can find a matching pair.
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Search for matching pairs of free tiles. The matching tiles must be identical, with the exception, in traditional mah-jongg sets, of the tiles for flowers and seasons. All four flower titles can form pairs with each other, as can all four season tiles. When you find a matching pair, click on the tiles to remove them from the board.
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Think strategically. Always try to remove tiles that are blocking other tiles. When possible, remove tiles from the tops of tall stacks and the ends of long rows and columns. If you have three free matching tiles, remove the two that will do you the most good in freeing up other tiles.
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Continue removing pairs in the same way until you have cleared the board or until you reach a dead end and cannot match up any of the remaining free tiles.
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Tips & Warnings
Many sites allow you to choose different board formations. Changing the formations keeps the game fresh, because each formation presents different challenges.
Many sites also allow you to change the tile designs. The traditional Chinese tiles can be difficult to pair up, as many tiles look similar but are not actual matches. Tiles with alternate designs can make it easier to spot matching pairs.
Some sites let you race against a timer, undo moves and get hints from the computer.
You can also download solitaire mah-jongg games to play offline.
References
Resources
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