Official League Play
National American Mahjong Tournament Rules
These rules guide every 2468 Club league night so play is fair, fun, and consistent from the first Charleston to the Season Finale.
Game Play
NMJL card
Games are played using the current National Mah Jongg League (NMJL) card.
Standard rules
Standard American Mahjong rules and Charleston apply.
Time limit
Each game has a set time limit. When time is called, players finish the current turn only.
Wall game
If no one has declared Mahjong after the final turn, the game is recorded as a Wall Game.
Rotate tables
Players rotate tables/seats according to the tournament schedule.
Scoring
Mahjong
Winner receives the point value printed on the NMJL card for the completed hand.
Self-Picked Mahjong
+10 bonus points.
Jokerless Hand
+10 bonus points, excluding Singles & Pairs hands.
Wall Game
Each player receives 10 points.
Incorrect Mahjong
Player receives 0 points for that game.
Discarding the Winning Tile
−10 points if the winner had 1 or fewer exposures; −20 points if the winner had 2 or more exposures.
See also: Tournament Scoring breakdown and example
Tournament Etiquette
- Players are responsible for verifying their own hands and scores.
- Once a score has been recorded and confirmed, it is considered final.
- Players should keep their tiles visible and exposures clearly displayed.
- No coaching, discussing another player's hand, or revealing information that could influence play.
- Questions or scoring disputes should be directed to the tournament organizer.
- Most importantly: friendly competition, good sportsmanship, and respect for everyone at the table.
League Winners
Scores are totaled for each league night to determine the Weekly Winner. Cumulative scores across the six-week league determine the Grand Champion.