Mah Jong is a traditional Chinese board game that originated in the 19th century. It is commonly played with four players and a set of 144 tiles, which are divided into different suits and categories. The objective of the game is to collect sets of tiles and form a winning hand. To play Mah Jong, each player takes turns drawing and discarding tiles, aiming to create specific combinations such as sets (three identical tiles) and runs (three consecutive tiles of the same suit). The game involves strategic decision-making, as players must carefully consider which tiles to keep or discard based on their hand and the tiles revealed by other players. To win the game, a player must complete a winning hand by collecting a combination of sets and runs, along with a pair of identical tiles. The specific requirements for a winning hand may vary depending on the regional rules being followed. Mah Jong was invented in China during the Qing dynasty and has since gained popularity worldwide. It holds significant cultural and heritage value, representing Chinese traditions and social interactions. The game is often associated with family gatherings, socializing, and strategic thinking. It has also influenced various forms of entertainment, including video games and online adaptations, further contributing to its cultural significance.
Have you watched the movie Crazy Rich Asians? Mah Jong was at the centre of the show down between Constance Wu and Michelle Yeoh (Godess and Oscar Winner!). Go watch and read about the game theory behind the Mah Jong game in the movie!
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