Mahjong layouts are four layers high, in the rough shape of a pyramid. Although there are no strict layout rules, most traditional Mahjong setups use four jutting arms, fixed facing horizontally on the four corners of the square pyramid. More of these “arms” will open up more blocks for use, making the game easier. Templates for Mahjong solitaires are available to look up online. [1] X Research source However, once you become a seasoned player, you should experiment with creating your own formations. Just make sure that the formation has a large base with jutting arms and blocks that are open for removal. If you’re using cards, set cards next to one another. Because these cards will take up more space than the small Mahjong blocks, it may be a good idea to add more vertical layers than you would with the blocks.
Because a given block will appear four times in a set, the strategic element is to remove blocks that will open up the greatest number of new blocks, thereby making it easier for you to keep the game going. [2] X Research source
Layouts also radically change the game experience, especially if you maximize the amount of vertical layers. Take care not to make it too challenging for yourself, however. Getting too ambitious with layouts will quickly make the game impossible to play. Look at some permutations of the game that other people have invented. Although many game versions have been created as online browser games, there’s no reason why you can’t apply those rules to an at-home game of it. Mahjong Solitaire is a fundamentally simple game at heart, so it practically begs to be experimented with.
Set a stopwatch and time yourself. Adding time into the game will increase the intensity. This is a good move if you are already well-versed in Mahjong and need an increased challenge. Because it’s a single-player game, you don’t need to score yourself at all if you don’t want to.
For simplicity’s sake, you start off playing Mahjong Solitaire online. Helpful things like pre-made layouts, difficulty settings and a “hints” toolbar make it perfect for someone who is still learning the ropes.
Try looking for a difficulty gauge on the version of the game you’re using. This may have an impact on the type of layout you play with.
The blocks must be considered “open” in order to be taken out. This means they’re not covered by other blocks on more than one side, and are not covered by a second layer of block. This gameplay mechanic has been mirrored in many other online browser games to date.
Although all of these games ill use the same core gameplay elements, you’ll have to learn new rules specific to each game. This is perfect if you’ve overplayed the core game too much and are looking for a way to liven up your experience.
Many Mahjong sets award different scores to sets of tiles based on their rarity. Taking account of the rarity of certain sets can help you strategize your game further. [11] X Research source
