Mahjong is an Asian game where the goal is for players to match tiles using clever strategy. The game is typically played with four players, but this computerized version allows for single-player. The goal is to eliminate all tiles by matching them up.
For a game that immerses you in total relaxation while you play, try 24/7 Mahjong. This computerized version of an ancient and popular game will have you engaged and entertained like never before.
The game’s visual appeal immediately stands out when you arrive on the landing page. Koi fish border the tiles in the center of the screen, their lithe tails stuck in a swishing motion as traditional Chinese music is played. Each time you match tiles, a pleasant chiming sound is heard. It’s like the tinkling of bells gently playing on your ear. Players may find themselves resting on the game’s page for a relaxing musical background while they do other things, but let’s hope they can concentrate on the game despite this.
The rules are fairly straightforward once you get the hang of them. The most complicated part of Mahjong is the intimidation factor. The setup looks complicated, and players often feel a sense of unease when they stare at all 144 tiles. Don’t worry. The game’s rules are simpler than most card games. Players must eliminate tiles by matching them. Tiles that are available to match are the ones on the edges and top layer. The pile of tiles will slowly descend and get smaller as you match tiles, as matches are removed from play.
24/7 Mahjong lets you match tiles not only based on the tiles’ numbers but also according to the flower or season pictured. A player’s strategy works best when they match tiles that free up other tiles. Failing to use this strategy will make the game harder and possibly leave you with a stalemate. This particular Mahjong game features 26 different versions and variations, including the classic version. Players are also given the option to mute the sound, get helpful hints, and an “undo move” button.
This version of Mahjong is simply excellent. The graphics aren’t too flashy, something that adds to the game’s peaceful atmosphere. Tiles have some quite unique designs that you may get distracted by. Depending on what computer screen size you’re using, the tiles may blend together a bit too much, making it difficult to distinguish matches. Eye problems aside, the game lends itself to hours of play in a soothing environment and warrants a standing ovation for its soundtrack.
Mahjong Solitaire Epic for Android
Ancient Chinese tradition speaks of a device that lets you magically play Mahjong with merely a touch of your finger. Well, as mystical as that sounds, we’re actually talking about the new Android app for Mahjong Solitaire Epic from Kristanix Games!
Mahjong Solitaire Epic is a modern take on the classic game that lets users take it on the go. Players must eliminate tiles two at a time by matching them up. With over 1,100 different board setups, this app has a lot going for it.
The app sports some stunning high definition graphics, and players can choose from a variety of cosmic backgrounds to play on. New puzzles are added daily to the already vast collection. You also get to choose from eight different tile sets, all of which are beautifully designed with anything from Chinese characters to Koi fish. Controls are simple; simply tap to pick up a tile and tap again in the spot you want it to go. The fun really starts when you challenge your friends to a round.
There’s little ill to be said about this app. Other than a few reported crashes and bugs (something that’s common with any new app), users have found it to be a highly enjoyable game. We aren’t sure why the backgrounds you can choose from are galaxies and other space-related pictures, but they’re still pretty cool. The game’s large number of boards prevent players from getting bored quickly with gameplay; you’ll have to spend dozens of hours playing to get through them all, as there are over 1,100 and counting.
Mahjong Journey for iPhone
Who knew Mahjong could be paired with a storyline? Mahjong Journey for the iOS leads you through a multitude of challenging levels as you try to complete your quest to save a young girl’s parents.
Mahjong Journey is a spin on the classic game of Mahjong. Players must match all tiles in order to win, which can be quite the challenge with some board setups. The game has 475 levels to play through, so you won’t be completing it anytime soon.
Mahjong Journey starts off in Shanghai. You play as the young girl travelling with her grandfather across the vast continent of Asia, eventually scouring other parts of the globe for the girl’s lost parents. Rather than having just the usual gameplay rules, Mahjong Journey lets you earn special abilities when you complete levels. “Firecracker” lets you blow up multiple tiles at a time, and “Shuffle” lets you mix the tiles up if you’re stuck. Gold stars are awarded each round depending on how fast your solve each puzzle. Power-ups and upgrades are available to purchase, but you’ll still have plenty of fun with the abilities you earn.
The number of levels you have to get through to save this girl’s parents is ridiculous, and if it were us, we would have just become orphans. However, the plot gives gameplay an element that other apps don’t have, and the puzzles themselves provide ever-increasing challenges to keep you busy. It’s also free, with the app being updated regularly with new levels and cool tile sets. The download is huge, but it’s worth it for the hours of fun you’ll get out of it.