Riichi
A Japanese variant of mahjong featuring riichi declarations, dora tiles, and complex yaku (winning pattern) requirements.
Definition
Riichi (also called Japanese Mahjong or Riichi Mahjong) is the dominant mahjong variant in Japan. It features a unique "riichi" declaration — when a player is one tile away from winning with a concealed hand, they can declare riichi, placing a 1,000-point stake on the table. Riichi Mahjong uses dora tiles (bonus indicators), complex yaku (required winning patterns), and a defensive meta-game driven by its furiten rule.
How It Works in Gameplay
To win in Riichi Mahjong, your hand must contain at least one yaku — a specific pattern or condition that qualifies the hand. Simply forming four groups and a pair is not enough. The riichi declaration itself is a yaku, so declaring it guarantees a valid win if you complete the hand. The furiten rule prevents you from winning on a discard if you previously passed up the same tile. Scoring involves calculating han (pattern multipliers) and fu (base points), creating a deep strategic layer. Dora tiles add bonus value without contributing to yaku.
Example
You hold a concealed hand that's one 7 Pin away from a complete tenpai (ready) hand. You declare "Riichi!" and place a 1,000-point stick on the table. Your hand is now locked — you can't change your tiles. Two turns later, an opponent discards the 7 Pin. You call "Ron!" and win, scoring your riichi yaku plus any bonus dora tiles in your hand.
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