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How to Play Mahjong Connect

Rules and tips for Mahjong Connect (Shisen-Sho), for first-time players.

How to play Mahjong Connect

  1. 1

    Mahjong tiles are laid out flat on the board. Choose two identical tiles; if they can be joined by a line, both are removed.

  2. 2

    The line runs only horizontally and vertically and can't pass over other tiles. It may turn at most twice (up to three straight segments).

  3. 3

    The line may also run through the empty space around the outside of the board. Matching tiles that sit side by side can always be taken.

  4. 4

    Remove every tile to win. If no pair can be connected, you're stuck; on this site, Shuffle rearranges the remaining tiles.

  5. 5

    The tiles are the numbers 1 to 9 in characters, circles and bamboo, plus the four winds and three dragons: 34 kinds, four of each (Easy and Medium use fewer kinds).

Tips for clearing the board

Play Mahjong Connect →

FAQ

Is Mahjong Connect free to play?

Yes, and there's no sign-up. Play right in your browser on a phone, tablet or computer.

Is this the same as Shisen-Sho?

Yes. The game is known as Shisen-Sho in Japan and as Mahjong Connect in English. It is also called Nikakudori, "two-corner taking", because the line can have at most two corners.

How is it different from Mahjong Solitaire?

Both games remove matching pairs of tiles. In Mahjong Solitaire the tiles are stacked, and a tile is free when nothing is on top and one side is open. In Mahjong Connect the tiles lie flat, and two tiles can be taken when a line can join them.

Can every game be cleared?

Yes. Before a deal is used, a program checks that there is an order that removes every tile. Your own choices can still lead to a dead end; if that happens, use Undo or Shuffle.

Are hints and shuffles limited?

No. Hints, shuffles and undo are unlimited. The number you used is shown when you clear the board.

Are the tiles small on a phone?

On a tall, narrow screen the wide board is turned upright so the tiles can be as large as possible. If they still feel small, start with Easy (6×10).

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