"Mahjong" can mean the classic four-player game or the single-player puzzle. Here we focus on the rules that matter for the puzzle version: Mahjong Solitaire. The idea is matching and removing tiles under simple conditions. Once you know what "free" and "match" mean, you can play any layout.
When Is a Tile Free?
A tile is free only if no other tile lies on top of it (partially or fully) and it has at least one long side open—left or right—not blocked by the layout. Tiles under others or with both sides blocked cannot be played. Tile matching always uses two free tiles.
What Counts as a Match?
Two tiles match if they are identical: same suit and rank (e.g. two Bamboo 3s), or same type for honors (two Red Dragons, two North Winds). Flowers and seasons usually match any tile in their group (e.g. any flower with any flower). Suits and honors are explained in our Mahjong tiles guide and terminology.
Winning and Losing
You win by removing every tile. You lose (without reshuffle) when no free matching pair remains. Some implementations allow one or more reshuffles to try again. Strategy is about which pairs to take first so you do not block yourself; see winning strategies for ideas. These rules keep the game easy to learn and suitable for beginners.