Question: Do I have to announce that I am doing a joker exchange from my own rack? Answer: There is no rule that states a player must announce a joker exchange from their own rack. However, the NMJL does recommend one doing so as a courtesy. Source: 2023 National Mah Jongg League Bulletin Q & A […]
Question: I understand that once you pick a tile from the wall and rack it, no one else can call the previously discarded tile. How does this apply if someone picks a tile from the wall, does not rack it but then says, “I’d like your joker.” If they don’t rack the tile first, is the […]
Question: Can Jokers be exchanged from existing exposures on a Concealed Hand that was later declared dead? Answer: Once a Player’s Concealed Hand is declared dead, all exposures are returned to that Player’s rack. None of the Jokers from a Concealed hand whether prior to or at the time the hand is declared dead are […]
Question: What exactly is Joker Bait? Answer: Joker Bait is a strategy that can provide an opportunity for you to do a Joker exchange. The term was coined by Tom Sloper of Sloperama. Joker Bait doesn’t always work but when it does, you’ve just strategically gained a Joker. Here’s how Joker Bait works: Keep a pair that you’ve […]
Question: Is there any strategy when using jokers? Answers: Absolutely there is. Check out this article: Jokers play a significant role in Mah Jongg, similar to wild cards in card games. They provide opportunities for strategic gameplay. Here are some of the key strategies to consider when using jokers: Utilize jokers in Sets: Unlike card […]
Question: Can I do a Joker Exchange before or after I call a discard for an exposure and then add the Joker to my exposure? Answer: The Joker Exchange would take place after you’ve picked up the called tile and completed your exposure. The exposure must be able to be completed without the help of […]
Question: Can I change my mind once I’ve done a Joker Exchange? Answer: Once a player receives a joker after it is replaced with the same symbol tile, the exchange cannot be reversed. They have committed to the exchange. This ruling is not found in Mah Jongg Made Easy. Sources: National Mah Jongg League Bulletins […]
Question: Why isn’t it preferred to name a Joker, “Joker” when discarding it? Answer: From the “begin game” to before the “end game”, naming a Joker, “Joker” when discarding it, would naturally bring attention to it. To avoid doing this, it is acceptable to discard a Joker and name it the previously discarded tile; regardless […]
Question: When East is playing a Singles & Pair Hand, and the the first discard is a joker, it must be called. “Joker,” since there was no previously discarded tile from which to name it. This ruling is not found in Mah Jongg Made Easy. Source: National Mah Jongg League Bulletin Q&A (1972 page 4, […]
Question: Is there a process to doing a Joker Exchange? Answer: Joker exchanges can only be done during your turn. Here are the steps for proper etiquette during a Joker Exchange from another player’s rack: Pick a tile from the wall or call a discard before performing your Joker Exchange. Announce your Joker Exchange to […]