A fun twist to the game — or a purist’s nemesis?

“If the National Mah Jongg League (NMJL) rules state there are 152 tiles used in the game, why are there 160 tiles in my set?”

Great question — and the answer is where things get interesting.

Most modern tile sets include the NMJL standard 152 tiles, plus 2 extra jokers and 6 “blanks”, bringing the total to 160. Blanks, literally a plain tile with nothing on its face, were originally meant to replace lost tiles, but over time many players began using them as part of the game. Since blanks aren’t included in NMJL rules, using them becomes what we call a house rule.

What exactly are house rules?

Think of house rules like poker variations — the game is the same, but the vibe shifts depending on who you’re playing with.

In Mahjong, house rules can include things like:

·       whether you build walls or play “messy”

·       whether East deals the tiles, allowing the other people at the table social time or drink re-fill time

·       whether the group plays fast, slow, or somewhere in between

·       and yes… whether blanks are allowed

The key is simple: house rules must be stated before the game begins. Never assume everyone plays the same way.

The “vampire tile”: how blanks work

Before we go further, one important rule:

Blanks cannot be used in exposures or to declare Mahjong.

Blanks are recovery tiles — meaning you can quietly swap a blank for a tile already on the table (a “dead” tile) and bring that tile back into your hand. You don’t wait your turn. You don’t announce it. You do it with stealth.

And unlike jokers, blanks have almost no restrictions. You can recover:

·       a tile you need for a consecutive run

·       a tile for your pair

·       a single

·       or a tile that helps you pivot your hand entirely

For this house rule, you simply mix the 6 blanks (and even the 2 extra jokers, if you want more chaos) into the standard 152 tiles and play as usual. Just remember: a blank cannot be exposed, either as part of your meld or to claim Mahjong.

Why is using blanks considered controversial?

Because they’re not part of the official NMJL rules — and many players follow those rules exclusively. Most tournaments do, too.

Purists prefer the structure, strategy, and predictability of NMJL-only play.

Advocates love the creativity, recovery options, and beginner-friendly fun that blanks bring to the table.

Both have valid points.

So… is one better than the other?

Not at all.

But I’ll say this clearly: beginners should learn without blanks first.

If you rely on blanks early on, you’ll be at a disadvantage when playing with groups who follow NMJL rules.

My take on blanks

I loved using blanks when I first started playing — and I still enjoy them for casual, social games. But when I’m focused on improving my offensive and defensive play, I stick to NMJL rules. That’s where the real growth happens.

Want to try blanks — or learn the official rules?

Whether you’re a purist, a playful experimenter, or somewhere in between, the most important thing is that you’re playing, learning, and having fun.

If you’re curious to explore more:

·       Review some of my tips and tricks to improve your Mahjong game here

·       Shop our Mahjong sets — including sets with blanks — here

·       If you’ve taken a Mahjong 101 class and are ready to sharpen your game and experience a few “house rules”, feel free to join one of our Mahjong 102 sessions where we teach about blanks and more. Our 30-day class schedule is located here

And if you ever want help choosing a set, understanding a rule, or leveling up your game, I’m right here in your corner.

Happy Mahjong!

Connie Shelton