There’s a lot of noise out there when it comes to online Mahjong platforms. But if you’re focused specifically on American Mahjong – especially if you’re trying to master the NMJL card – I Love Mahj might just be the most tailored tool out there.
This isn’t a flashy mobile game filled with coins and cartoon dragons. It’s a polished, browser-based platform that takes American Mahjong seriously. And whether you’re just learning or trying to perfect your Charleston strategy, it’s got a lot to offer.
I’m Connor, your Mahjong-obsessed guide. I’ve played on just about every online platform out there, from barebones bots to hyper-competitive live tables. And I can honestly say: I Love Mahj gets a lot right.
What Is I Love Mahj?
I Love Mahj is an online platform built specifically around National Mah Jongg League (NMJL) rules. It’s entirely browser-based (no app download required), and it’s designed with three core goals in mind:
- Teach you how to play American Mahjong
- Let you practice and track your skills
- Offer smooth, flexible live and AI-based games
The layout is modern and intuitive, and it doesn’t overwhelm you with clutter. Everything you need – games, drills, tutorials, even coaching directories – is cleanly laid out.
Key Features
🎯 Practice Mode
The biggest standout for beginners is Practice Mode, which includes exercises for:
- Hand-building drills based on the NMJL card
- Charleston practice
- Discard suggestions
- Progression tracking
Connor’s Take: “The drills are smart. Like having a coach gently correct you without being annoying. Helped me learn the 2025 card faster than ever.”
🤖 Smart AI Bots
You can play with or against bots with adjustable difficulty. Great for solo play or if you’re nervous about jumping into a live game.
Bots follow NMJL rules exactly and simulate real player behavior – dead hands, calls, exposures, etc.
👥 Live Multiplayer with Video Chat
I Love Mahj doesn’t just connect you to players – it makes the experience social.
- Real-time video and audio chat during games
- Easy table setup and invitations
- Group or club support for recurring games
Connor’s Take: “This is as close to a real-life game night as you’ll get online. I’ve played with friends in three time zones – mimosas, coffee, wine… it works.”
📊 Stats and Game Logs
Every game you play is logged. Stats include:
- Wins and losses
- NMJL hand types completed
- Average think time
- Bot vs. live win ratio
📚 Tutorials and Learning Resources
New to Mahjong? The site includes:
- Beginner tutorials
- 2025 NMJL card explanation
- Rules deep-dives
- Mahjong glossary
- Video explainers
And if that’s not enough, there’s a coach directory where you can find a teacher.
Pricing
- Free 2-week trial with no credit card required
- Paid plan: $6/month or $60/year
- Often includes senior discounts or extended trial promos via partner sites
Connor’s Take: “Honestly? Worth it. I’ve spent more than $6 on coffee I didn’t finish. This actually improved my game.”
Pros and Cons
👍 Pros
- Designed specifically for NMJL rules
- Perfect for beginners & learners
- Practice mode is unmatched
- Real social gaming with built-in chat
- Clean, modern interface
- Coaching and club features built-in
👎 Cons
- No support for Chinese or Riichi Mahjong
- Requires a subscription after trial
- Live player pool can be small during off-hours
Who Should Use I Love Mahj?
- Total Beginners – The tutorials and practice mode are incredibly helpful.
- Returning Players – Get comfortable with new NMJL cards and strategies.
- Club Hosts & Teachers – Manage events and teach remotely.
- Solo Players – Train against smart bots and improve your game.
If you’re looking for competitive tournament play or international rule sets like Riichi, this isn’t your platform. But for NMJL purists, it’s hard to beat.
FAQs About I Love Mahj
Is I Love Mahj good for beginners?
Absolutely. It was practically designed for them – with tools that teach you how to play correctly and progressively.
Can I play on mobile?
Yes. While it’s browser-based, it’s fully responsive and works great on phones and tablets.
Does it use the 2025 NMJL card?
Yes, the site always stays up to date with the latest NMJL card.
What’s better: I Love Mahj or RealMahjongg?
I Love Mahj is better for learning and practicing. RealMahjongg has a larger live player base. Ideally? Use both.
Final Verdict
Connor’s Final Word: “I Love Mahj isn’t just a good site. It’s a thoughtful, respectful nod to American Mahjong lovers who want to play and improve at their own pace.”
It’s not flashy. It’s not gamified. But it’s the place to go if you care about learning and playing American Mahjong the right way.
For $6/month, you get access to top-tier tutorials, real games, and a social circle of players who actually know what a joker’s for. That’s a bargain.
Ready to try it out? Sign up for the 2-week trial and see how far your Mahjong journey can go. You might even catch Connor at a virtual table… just don’t discard a flower when he needs it.
