Mahjong Scoring Model

Mahjong Academy House Style

Classic 3–2–1 Scoring Model

At Mahjong Academy, we use a simple, intuitive chip-based scoring system that focuses on how a hand is won rather than complex hand patterns. This makes the game easier to learn, faster to play, and more enjoyable for social or instructional settings.

Base Unit

Before starting, players agree on a base unit:

  • 1 unit = 1 chip
    (This can represent any agreed value.)

All payments are calculated using this base unit.

Winning the Hand

Win by Discard

When a player wins using a tile discarded by another player:

  • The discarding player pays the winner 3 units
  • The other two players do not pay

Winner receives: +3 units

This rule places responsibility on the player who made the mistake and keeps settlements simple.

Win by Self-Draw

When a player draws the winning tile themselves:

  • Each of the other three players pays the winner 2 units

Winner receives:
2 units × 3 players = +6 units

Self-draw wins are rewarded more highly because they rely entirely on the winner’s own draw.

Kong Payments

Kong payments are settled separately from winning the hand, but only if the hand eventually has a winner.

Kong payments are independent of how the hand is won (self-draw or discard). However, if the round ends without a winner (a drawn hand / no one wins), all kong payments are void and no kong-related chips are exchanged.

In other words, kong payments are conditional on the hand being completed with a win.

Exposed Kong

When a player forms an exposed kong using a discarded tile:

  • The player who provided the tile pays 3 units
  • The other two players do not pay

Concealed Kong

When a player forms a concealed kong from their own hand:

  • Each of the other three players pays 2 units

Total received: +6 units

This system forms the foundation scoring model at Mahjong Academy. Additional bonuses or advanced scoring rules can be layered on later, but this structure ensures clarity, fairness, and a smooth learning experience.

Mahjong Academy — One-Page Scoring Card

Classic 3–2–1 Model

Base Unit:
1 unit = 1 chip (or agreed value)

Winning the Hand

Self-Draw Win

  • Each opponent pays 2 units
  • Winner receives +6 units total

Win by Discard

  • Discarding player pays 3 units
  • Other players pay nothing
  • Winner receives +3 units

Kong Payments

Exposed Kong

  • Tile provider pays 3 units

Concealed Kong

  • Each opponent pays 2 units
  • Total received: +6 units

Notes

  • Kong payments are settled only if the hand ends with a winner.
  • If the hand is a draw, all kong payments are canceled.

Mahjong Academy Philosophy

Simple rules. Clear outcomes. Elegant play.

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