I did have one game and thought I was doing really well until I slammed down a piece and shouted "MAHJONG!" and they threw me out.

i played this game a few times i dont see the big fuss and why people are going crazy over it, and never in my life have i seen family members sit down and gamble together at home

I can play the most basic version, the Guangdong version, but I agree, its not that fun to be honest.  Plus I don't really see whats so great about gambling with family members.  Why can't they just play for fun instead of money?

The basic rules I can understand and play by.  But the local rules here are a bit over the top with tile substitutions and the plethora of additional winning "special" sets.  I usually just get confused and of course they're not willing to slow down the game for teaching purposes.  Apparently they had to learn the same way, and in the process lost lots of their own money.  Count me out!

great game that I learned to play online as a solitaire game......recently I learned how to play the simple version in Zhanjinag, Guangdong ..........  I kicked their asses 3 of 5 games and my mother-in-law never won a game.....hahahahhaha.....71 year old that thinks she's the boss  ..............I had a FEW advising and helping me, but I did learn quickly and am very proud of winning them games......  I think it is a great pastime and willing to take anybody on now