How to Start Playing Mahjong Online (Step-by-Step)
Here’s how I usually get people into online mahjong when they ask me:
- Pick a platform. I always recommend PlayMahjong.io for absolute beginners and I Love Mahj for those learning American style.
- Use practice mode. Trust me, play a few bot games first unless you want to be publicly humbled.
- Learn the basic rules. There’s always a rules or tutorial section. Use it.
- Join a casual multiplayer game. Don’t worry – everyone starts out slow. Most people are just happy you’re not rage quitting.
- Play regularly. Even just 10 minutes a day helps you recognize patterns faster. Mahjong is one of those “slow mastery” games.
And don’t stress – losing a few games is part of the charm. I’ve been playing for years and I still mess up a hand or two every now and then.
Types of Mahjong You Can Play Online
I didn’t know there were different types of mahjong until I accidentally joined a Riichi game and had no clue what was happening. So here’s the lowdown:
- American Mahjong: My go-to. Uses jokers, a yearly card, and is big in the U.S. If you’ve got a family member who plays, it’s probably this version.
- Chinese Mahjong (Hong Kong or Cantonese style): Feels more traditional. It’s tile-matching with fewer special rules. Easier to pick up but still a deep game.
- Japanese Mahjong (Riichi): Fast-paced, strategic, and totally addicting once you get the rules. You’ll see more of this style in online tournaments.
Each type has a slightly different rhythm and set of rules – so don’t be afraid to experiment. I bounce between them depending on how serious I’m feeling.
What Makes a Good Online Mahjong Platform? (According to Me, Connor)
You don’t need to be a tech wizard or mahjong purist to know when a platform feels right. For me, these are the things that make or break it:
- Smooth gameplay. Laggy tiles? No thanks. I want quick responses and fluid movement – especially during tight games.
- Beginner-friendly tutorials. I still remember getting schooled by bots when I first started. Having a walkthrough makes all the difference.
- A strong community. Playing against bots is fun, but a real player adds unpredictability and excitement. Bonus points if the chat doesn’t feel like a spam pit.
- Customization. Some days I want my board to look like a Vegas table. Other days? Bamboo tiles and peaceful vibes.
- Fair monetization. I don’t mind paying a few bucks for extra features – but I want the base experience to be worth it on its own.
If a platform nails most of that? I’m sold.
Check out our Top 3 Best Online Mahjong Websites.