Dice
Standard six-sided dice included in a Mahjong set, rolled by the dealer at the start of each hand to determine where the wall is broken and tile dealing begins.
How Dice Are Used in Mahjong
In American Mah Jongg, dice are rolled at the beginning of each hand to determine the breaking point of the wall, the spot where the dealer begins dealing tiles. After all four players have built their wall sections and pushed them to the center to form a square, the dealer rolls two or three dice (the number used is a table rule that varies by group).
The sum of the dice determines which player's wall section is broken and at which point along that wall. The dealer counts counterclockwise from their own position to identify the wall section, then counts tiles from right to left along that section to find the exact breaking point. The wall is separated at that point, and dealing proceeds from the break.
This randomized breaking procedure ensures that no player can predict which tiles they will receive, adding an element of chance to the initial deal. The dice roll is a brief but important ritual that marks the official start of each hand.
Types of Dice and Practical Notes
Most Mahjong sets include two or three standard six-sided dice, often in a color that matches the set's aesthetic. Some sets include oversized dice that are easier to read, while others use small dice that tuck neatly into the carrying case. The dice themselves are no different from any standard gaming dice, what matters is that the numbers are clearly legible and the dice roll fairly.
Some practical notes on dice in Mahjong:
- Two vs. three dice, Traditional Asian Mahjong uses three dice. Many American groups use only two, which simplifies the counting. Check your group's table rules
- Rolling surface, Roll dice onto the table cover inside the wall square to prevent them from scattering tiles. Rolling on felt also reduces bounce and noise
- Lost dice, If your set's dice go missing, any standard six-sided dice will work as replacements. The dice have no special markings unique to Mahjong