Riichi Japanese Mahjong (EMA Rules)- FAQ

Update June 25, 2010

This document is compiled for the most common questions sent to the support and encountered in the chat section. If you are a seasoned Riichi player. It is unlikely that this faq will be of any use.

Q: What is Furiten?
A: If a player can go out, using one of his previously discarded tiles, he is said to be furiten. A player who is furiten can not go out on other players discards. He may still go out on a self draw.

Q: What is the dora when the indication is a Dragon?
A: When the indicator is the Green Dragon the dora is the Red Dragon, when the indicator is the the Red Dragon the dora is the White Dragon and when the indicator is the White Dragon the dora is the Green Dragon. (GRW)
Thanks to alien_mame for pointing out the mistake!

Q: What happens if I am furiten and have declared Riichi?
A: You can still go out on a self draw (Tsumo)

Q: What is an outside hand?
A: An outside hand is a hand that includes terminals (1s and 9s) and honors (dragons and winds) in all sets.

Q: What is the difference between EMA Riichi and Japanese Riichi?
Japanese Riichi Refers follows the rules of Japanese Professional Mahjong League B rule set (JPML-B). The differences are minor and are listed here below:

1. All simples (Tanyao) may be open. Concealed or not, the pattern scores one yaku.
2. Open Ryan Peikou (Twice Pure Double Chiis) scores 2 yakus.
3. The Blessing of Man (Renho) yakuman is not used.