Why Turn Order Matters in Mahjong

Turn order is the heartbeat of Japanese Riichi Mahjong. The game proceeds clockwise, and your seat position affects who can Chi from you, how often you draw before rivals, and the risk of your discards. Mastering turn order helps balance offense and defense.

The Four Player Positions (East, South, West, North)

• East (Dealer): Starts the hand, scores higher, and stays dealer if winning.
• South / West / North: Non-dealers whose position affects discard risks and opportunities.

Position determines whether you pressure opponents with Chi or must defend against their calls.

Determining the Dealer

At the start, dice assign East. After each hand:

• Dealer win → dealer continues.
• Dealer loss → dealership rotates clockwise.

The Rotation of Dealer and Seat Wind

Play is divided into rounds (East round, South round, etc.). Within each round, the dealer rotates unless they win. Seat winds shift accordingly, ensuring all players experience each position.

Effects of Turn Order on Strategy

Offensive Timing

Use Chi opportunities when seated right of an aggressive discarder. Plan melds based on left-hand player behavior.

Defensive Discipline

Be careful discarding into the player on your left. Safer tiles include honors already discarded or duplicates you hold.

Dealer-Specific Adjustments

As dealer, push harder with promising hands since rewards are higher. Fold quickly when multiple threats appear.

Seat Checklist

• East: High reward, but defend carefully.
• South: Adapt to East’s pace.
• West: Balanced position—decide attack or defense quickly.
• North: Last to act; maximize information for safer defense.

Conclusion

Seat position and turn order are central to Riichi Mahjong strategy. Learn who threatens your discards, who you can pressure, and when to shift gears between attack and defense. With awareness of player roles, you’ll become a smarter, more consistent winner.

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