Understanding the Basics: Kangs and Calls
Defining Kan
Mahjong revolves around building winning hands by completing sets of tiles. One crucial element is the “kan,” also known as the “kong.” This term refers to a set of four identical tiles. Making a kan is a significant move, offering opportunities for both strategic advantage and increased scoring. But understanding its implications is critical for success.
Kangs come in different forms, each with its own set of rules and effects on gameplay.
A kan that’s not revealed, remains hidden from other players, this is called a **closed kan**. A player must already have four of the same tile in their hand, and not have it called by other players.
Another type of kan is an “exposed kan”. This is when a player forms a set of four identical tiles by claiming a tile discarded by another player. This exposes their set to the other players, unlike a closed kan.
You can also add a tile to an existing “pong” (three-of-a-kind) to make an “added kan.” This is a dynamic element that alters the scoring and strategy of the game.
Defining Call
In the world of mahjong, a “call” means to use a tile to make a set. The purpose of calls is to create sets and meld your hand together.
The general rule to calling, is if you can complete a set based on the tile discarded by another player, you can call. You can declare “chow” for sequence, or a “pong” for three of a kind and create sets and meld your hand together. The person who calls will claim the tile and then create a set.
With this fundamental understanding of both kangs and calls, let’s address the core question: what happens after a player completes a **closed kan**?
The Rules Regarding Calls After a Closed Kan
Let’s directly address the central question. **Yes, a player can, in most standard Mahjong rulesets, call after declaring a closed kan**. A **closed kan** itself is a move of strategic importance, which gives a boost to the player’s score. It is not a restriction on future actions.
After completing a **closed kan**, the player draws a new tile from the wall (or, in some variants, the dead wall). This means the player has the opportunity to make calls using the tile they’ve drawn, or any subsequent tiles that appear.
The crucial element here is that the action of completing a **closed kan** doesn’t prevent a player from making calls, such as chows or pongs, when applicable, after they have drawn a replacement tile. This distinction separates it from other actions, like a “self-declared win,” where the play for the current round ends immediately.
There are exceptions. These are usually due to local rule adaptations. Such as how the kan is formed, or what type of kan it is. But the default is still that a player is allowed to call.
Addressing Potential Misconceptions
Many misconceptions can develop regarding the implications of forming a **closed kan**. Some players, especially those new to the game, may think that making a **closed kan** means they are now restricted in calling on subsequent tiles. This is not correct.
This misinterpretation may be due to several reasons. This could include the idea that making a kan, or a closed kan, takes up so much of the player’s focus or the mechanics, that a call isn’t considered.
It might also stem from playing with house rules that the player may have made that are confusing and inconsistent. The best way to clarify and avoid this is to follow a rule set.
It’s vital to understand these nuanced rules to avoid making costly mistakes during gameplay.
Strategic Implications of Closed Kangs and Calls
The ability to make calls after a **closed kan** presents several strategic opportunities.
Forming a **closed kan** is already a strategic move. It immediately increases the player’s score. It reveals your hand, and allows other players to have a better estimation of the tiles you have in your hand. This will affect the number of tiles left in the wall.
The strategic possibilities go hand in hand with the opportunity to make calls. This is especially true if a player has a near-complete hand. The flexibility of calling adds another layer of complexity.
The timing of calls also plays a significant strategic role. For example, if a player has a near complete hand, then a call can allow them to secure victory.
A player may also avoid calling, despite being able to. This can happen to maintain secrecy or avoid revealing a strong hand too early.
Scoring and the Closed Kan
The scoring system in Mahjong is very comprehensive, and often determines the winner. The impact of a **closed kan** on scoring is also essential.
The primary scoring implication of a **closed kan** is the number of points it awards. Completing a **closed kan** itself earns a number of points (this varies depending on the specific rule sets).
The overall score is, of course, affected. The more **closed kan** the player makes, the higher their score will be. This advantage is magnified if the player is going for a high-scoring hand.
Regional Variations
Mahjong is a game with a rich history. This has led to a diverse range of local and regional rule adaptations.
Some regions may have variations to the scoring system or, rarely, to the basic mechanics.
Conclusion
To answer the question, **is closed kan a call mahjong**? In the core, standard rules, the answer is a resounding yes. The act of declaring a **closed kan** does not prevent a player from calling.
This crucial understanding is essential for both new and veteran players to play effectively. Knowing the implications of kangs and calls is necessary to play the game and win.
