Mahjong Soul || Is This Your Card? 2024-05-19 

hey, gg wp, thanks

Should have spamed emotes

It's not too hard to understand. Riichi is basically Azorius Control, All Simples is RDW....

It also saw use in TF2 once they not only introduced new weapons, but also hats and other cosmetics. It is however less common now than "Gibus" (as in "Gibus Engineer" or "Gibus Sniper") as the Gibus is likely the first hat a new player is to unlock and likely the only hat they have for a while.

Do you have time to review the entire history of China, Japan, and Korea

@@KaneYork I take you mean that the current game is the result of many different versions of the game played in different countries/periods.

Your exchange inspired me to ask Chatgpt about this (I find Chatgpt helpful in these kinds of questions when i don't really know where to begin). Spesifically, I asked: "What social and cultural influences are central to development of mahjong and especially riichi mahjong" Here's the answer for your edification, I have not reviewed it for accuracy etc. ChatGPT The development of Mahjong, particularly Riichi Mahjong, is deeply intertwined with social and cultural influences that have shaped the game into a popular and strategic pastime in Japan and beyond. Here are some key social and cultural factors that have been central to the development of Mahjong and Riichi Mahjong: 1. Historical Context and Modernization China’s Late Qing Dynasty (1644-1912): The origins of Mahjong can be traced back to China during the late Qing Dynasty, a time when China was experiencing significant social and economic changes. Mahjong emerged as a popular pastime among the urban middle and upper classes, reflecting the growing leisure culture in China. It became a way for people to socialize, relax, and demonstrate their wit and strategy. Early 20th Century Japan: When Mahjong was introduced to Japan in the early 20th century, Japan was undergoing rapid modernization and Westernization following the Meiji Restoration (1868). Mahjong was adopted as part of this cultural exchange, and it quickly became popular among Japanese people, particularly in urban areas. The game resonated with Japanese society's growing fascination with new forms of entertainment, competition, and socialization, reflecting the country’s modernizing ethos. 2. Social Interaction and Community Building Mahjong as a Social Game: From its earliest days in China, Mahjong has been more than just a game; it has been a social activity that brings people together. In China, playing Mahjong was a way for friends and family to gather, interact, and build relationships. This social aspect remained central as the game spread to Japan. In Japan, Mahjong became a popular pastime in communal settings such as teahouses, private homes, and later, specialized Mahjong parlors. The game served as a bonding activity, fostering camaraderie and competition among players. Japanese Social Norms and Group Dynamics: Japanese culture places a high value on social harmony (wa) and group cohesion. Riichi Mahjong reflects these values through its emphasis on both competition and cooperation. While players aim to win, they must also be mindful of others’ potential winning hands, balancing their own goals with the dynamics of the group. The game’s structure encourages players to read each other’s intentions, anticipate moves, and act accordingly, which aligns with the Japanese cultural emphasis on awareness of others and indirect communication. 3. Psychological and Strategic Depth Influence of Japanese Aesthetics and Thought: Japanese culture has a long tradition of appreciating subtlety, complexity, and depth, as seen in arts such as tea ceremony, calligraphy, and flower arrangement (ikebana). This appreciation is mirrored in the strategic depth of Riichi Mahjong. The introduction of the Riichi rule adds a layer of psychological strategy, where players must decide when to declare Riichi, balancing the risk of locking their hand with the potential reward. This decision-making process reflects the Japanese cultural value of patience, timing, and foresight. Game as a Mental Challenge: The complexity and depth of Riichi Mahjong appeal to the Japanese love of mental challenges and intellectual games. Similar to other traditional Japanese games like Go (Igo) and Shogi, Riichi Mahjong is seen as a test of skill, strategy, and mental acuity. The intricate scoring system and the need for careful calculation and prediction align with the cultural value placed on intelligence and mastery of a skill. 4. Post-War Japan and Leisure Culture Reconstruction and Economic Growth: After World War II, Japan underwent a period of rapid reconstruction and economic growth. As the country rebuilt, there was a resurgence in leisure activities, and Mahjong became a popular form of entertainment. The post-war period saw the rise of Mahjong parlors (jan-sou), where people could gather to play. These parlors became social hubs, especially in urban areas, contributing to the game's widespread popularity. Work Culture and Relaxation: During Japan's economic boom in the 1950s and 1960s, Mahjong became a popular pastime among salarymen (white-collar workers). After long hours at work, playing Mahjong offered a way to relax, unwind, and socialize with colleagues. The game provided an opportunity for informal networking and relationship-building outside of the formal work environment, reflecting the importance of social bonds in Japanese business culture. 5. Popular Culture and Media Influence Mahjong in Japanese Media: Riichi Mahjong has been prominently featured in Japanese popular culture, including manga, anime, and films. These portrayals have contributed to the game's popularity, particularly among younger generations. Famous manga like "Akagi" and "Saki" have depicted Mahjong as a game of intense psychological battles, further romanticizing the strategic and competitive aspects of Riichi Mahjong. This cultural representation has helped sustain the game’s popularity and introduced it to new audiences. Professionalization and Competitive Play: The formation of professional Mahjong leagues in Japan, such as the Japan Professional Mahjong League, has elevated the game to a serious, competitive level. Professional players are often treated as celebrities, and tournaments are broadcast on television, adding to the game's prestige. The professionalization of Mahjong reflects the Japanese cultural appreciation for dedication, skill mastery, and competitive excellence. 6. Globalization and Cultural Exchange Exporting Japanese Culture: As Japan became a global cultural force in the post-war era, elements of Japanese culture, including Riichi Mahjong, spread to other countries. The game’s internationalization reflects Japan’s role in global cultural exchanges and the spread of Japanese media and entertainment. Adapting to Global Audiences: Riichi Mahjong’s rules and gameplay have been adapted for international audiences, with global tournaments and online platforms making the game accessible to players worldwide. This globalization of Riichi Mahjong represents a fusion of Japanese cultural practices with global gaming culture. Conclusion Riichi Mahjong’s development is deeply rooted in a blend of historical, social, and cultural influences. From its origins in China to its adaptation in Japan, the game has evolved to reflect Japanese values such as strategic depth, social harmony, and intellectual challenge. The popularity of Riichi Mahjong has been sustained by its integration into Japanese leisure culture, its representation in popular media, and its role as a competitive and professionalized sport. These cultural elements have not only shaped the game itself but have also contributed to its lasting appeal both in Japan and around the world.