We’re in our Mahjong Era, Thanks to Tile-riffic Instructor Claire Ryan

• Key takeaway one: Claire Ryan runs Mahj with Claire, a local chapter of the Oh My Mahjong network, teaching the community the strategic game of mahjong.
• Key takeaway two: Mahjong, a game for four players, involves drawing and trading tiles to match one of the many hands, which are updated annually, adding complexity and continuous learning to the game.
• Key takeaway three: Ryan's classes and open play sessions provide an accessible way for beginners and seasoned players to dive into the world of mahjong, with prices starting at $30 for open play and $75 for lessons.

Mahjong, a game often shrouded in mystery and steeped in tradition, is experiencing a renaissance in our community, and we have Claire Ryan to thank for it. Ryan, a passionate game enthusiast and a certified instructor, has brought the ancient game to the forefront of local entertainment through her engaging sessions and insightful teachings at Mahj with Claire, a proud limb on the expanding Oh My Mahjong network tree.

Unraveling the Mystique of Mahjong

For those unacquainted, mahjong is not merely a game but a journey into a world of strategy, luck, and social interaction. Played by four individuals, the game's objective revolves around drawing and trading tiles, aiming to match one of the numerous hands listed in the game’s ever-evolving rule book. The catch? These hands change annually, ensuring the game remains a perpetual puzzle that challenges even the most seasoned players.

"I’ve always loved playing games — cards, especially," Ryan shared with ATXtoday. Her enthusiasm for games shines brightest when she talks about mahjong. "There’s always something new to learn with mahjong," she added, highlighting the game's dynamic nature and its capacity to continuously engage and challenge its players.

Diving Into the Game: A First-Hand Experience

Curious about the hype and intricacies of mahjong, I, City Editor Figi, decided to take the plunge and join one of Ryan’s sessions. As a newcomer, I was initially taken aback by the game's complexity and the strategic depth required to play effectively. Yet, under Ryan’s tutelage, the game's layers began to unfold, transforming my initial confusion into a burgeoning confidence. After observing just two games, I felt equipped to join the table and partake in this rich cultural tradition with friends.

Join the Mahjong Movement

Are you intrigued by the prospect of diving into mahjong? Ryan’s Mahj with Claire offers the perfect gateway for anyone looking to explore this fascinating game. Whether you’re a beginner eager to learn the ropes or a seasoned player seeking to refine your strategy and connect with fellow enthusiasts, Ryan’s sessions cater to all levels of interest and expertise.

To partake in this engaging community and sharpen your mahjong skills, consider signing up for one of her monthly open play sessions, available at a reasonable fee of $30 per seat. For those seeking a more structured introduction or looking to delve deeper into mahjong’s strategic aspects, lessons start at $75 each.

In embracing mahjong, we not only partake in a game of immense strategic depth but also join a community of enthusiasts bound by a shared passion for this timeless game. Through Ryan's efforts, mahjong transcends being merely a game; it becomes a medium for social connection, continuous learning, and cultural appreciation. Join us in our mahjong era and discover the joy and complexity that this tile-riffic game has to offer.