National Mah Jongg League Rules – Official 2025 Guide
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- National Mah Jongg League Overview
- New Updated Official Revision 2025 Mahjong Card
- Basic Rules of NMJL Mah Jongg
- How to Play Step by Step
- Common Mahjong Terms
- Winning Strategies & Tips
- NMJL Tournaments & Events
- Summary Table
- References
Introduction
The National Mah Jongg League (NMJL) is the official governing body for American-style Mahjong, established in 1937 to standardize rules and scoring. Every year, the NMJL releases an updated card with official hands and point values. The 2025 NMJL Card brings exciting revisions that players must know to stay competitive in both casual play and tournaments.
National Mah Jongg League Overview
The NMJL ensures consistency in how the game is played across the United States. It publishes official rules, clarifies disputes, and organizes tournaments. Their annual rule card is the most important resource for players.
- Founded: 1937
- Focus: Standardizing American Mah Jongg
- Key Resource: Annual Mah Jongg Card
- Membership: Open to all players; includes official newsletter and card delivery
New Updated Official Revision 2025 Mahjong Card
The New Updated Official Revision 2025 Mahjong Card – Large Size (4pcs, 6.1 x 4.7 Inch) is the latest edition you need for accurate gameplay. Here’s why it’s essential:
- ✅ Official 2025 Version: Latest revision, valid through April 2026
- ✅ Large Size: 6-1/8" x 4-3/4" cards for easy reading
- ✅ Vibrant 4-Color Printing: Bold, color-coded sections for fast referencing
- ✅ Spill & Weather Resistant: Durable surface perfect for game nights
- ✅ Family & Tournament Friendly: Includes 4 cards so all players are covered
Product Specifications
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Official Mahjong Card 2025 (Large Size, 4-Pack) |
| Card Dimensions | 6.1 x 4.7 inches (folded) |
| Update Date | March 28, 2025 |
| Usage Period | April 2025 – April 2026 |
| Printing | Full-color, bold text |
| Water Resistance | Yes, easy to wipe clean |
| Package Includes | 4 Mahjong rule cards |
Basic Rules of NMJL Mah Jongg
NMJL Mah Jongg is played with 152 tiles and typically four players. The goal is to make a Mah Jongg hand (a valid combination of tiles) as listed on the official card. Key elements include:
- Tiles: Suits (Bams, Craks, Dots), Winds, Dragons, Jokers, and Flowers
- Players: Four, seated in East, South, West, and North positions
- Deal: Each player receives 13 tiles, East receives 14
- Objective: Form a valid hand before others do
How to Play Step by Step
1. The Charleston
The Charleston is the unique tile-passing phase where players exchange unwanted tiles before starting the game. There are typically three passes: right, across, and left, with optional courtesy passes.
2. Building Your Hand
Use the card as your guide to aim for a specific hand early. Discard tiles strategically to prevent opponents from completing their sets.
3. Making a Mah Jongg
A player calls "Mah Jongg" when they complete a valid hand. The game then ends, and scoring is applied according to the card.
Common Mahjong Terms
- Pung: Three of a kind
- Kong: Four of a kind
- Chow: Three consecutive numbers in the same suit
- Charleston: Pre-play tile passing sequence
- Joker: Wild tile used to complete sets
- Wall: The stacks of tiles from which players draw
Winning Strategies & Tips
- Study the Card: Familiarize yourself with new hands every year.
- Plan Ahead: Pick a hand during Charleston and commit to it early.
- Watch Discards: Track which tiles opponents need to block their progress.
- Use Jokers Wisely: Save them for crucial combinations.
- Practice: Play regularly to improve speed and decision-making.
NMJL Tournaments & Events
Joining NMJL tournaments is a great way to test your skills and meet other Mahjong enthusiasts. Tournaments follow strict NMJL rules and offer prizes for top players.
Summary Table
| Key Aspect | Takeaway |
|---|---|
| NMJL Card | Official guide to hands and rules, updated annually |
| 2025 Update | Released March 28, 2025, valid through April 2026 |
| Gameplay | Build valid hands using Charleston, drawing, and discarding tiles |
| Strategy | Study the card, plan early, use jokers strategically |
| Product | 4-pack of large, durable cards perfect for group play |