Author: PVKPlays, Guest Contributor
Hi there, fellow Arkadium players.
I’m PVKplays, your newest (and maybe slightly middle-aged) gaming buddy here at Arkadium With years of experience solving puzzles and crosswords and playing all kinds of games on my iPad and PC, I’m excited to share my gaming adventures with you.
I’ll try out different games and give you honest reviews so you can know what’s fun, challenging, and worth your time. Recently, after a long day filled with brain-teasing games like the Daily Crossword, I needed something to help me relax but still challenge me. That’s when I discovered Mahjong Solitaire—and it didn’t disappoint!
Here’s Why I Loved Mahjong Solitaire
The Music
Right from the start, the music completely drew me in. It felt like I had entered a peaceful Zen garden. Paired with a cup of tea, I was all set to unwind. The calming tunes create the perfect relaxing atmosphere while still engaging your mind. If you want a soothing experience while playing a classic single-player game, this is it.
Collectible Achievements
One of the things I loved about Mahjong Solitaire is that there’s a fun collection system—every time you complete a game, you earn achievements. It’s like a personal trophy room or sticker book. If you enjoy collecting trophies or milestones, this adds a rewarding element that keeps you coming back for more.
Leaderboard & High Scores
Even though Mahjong Online is a single-player game, the competitive element is a great motivator. Seeing your name on the leaderboard adds a fun twist. I haven’t made the top three yet, but I’m getting closer! Plus, there’s a real sense of pride when you beat your own high score. This feature keeps the game exciting, challenging, and social, even when playing solo.
No Penalty for Hints
Need a little help with your Mahjong strategy? No worries! I loved that Mahjong Solitaire doesn’t penalize you for using hints. This removes the pressure while allowing you to enjoy the puzzle-solving challenge of matching Mahjong tiles.
A Few Challenges with Mahjong Solitaire
Special Tile Match
One tricky part of the game was the special tile match. I thought I had to match numbers, but in reality, I needed to match the colors of the Mahjong tiles. Once I figured this out, the game became much easier and more enjoyable. It’s just part of the learning curve, and with a bit of practice, you’ll get the hang of Mahjong strategy
Difficulty Level
Mahjong Solitaire can be challenging, especially for beginners. It is better suited for intermediate or advanced players. But if you’re new to the game, don’t be afraid to use hints freely. This will help you get used to the gameplay while still making progress and enjoying this single-player game.
There was one moment where I had only one open match left for six moves and was sure I’d lose, but I didn’t give up. That’s part of the thrill of Mahjong Solitaire—you never know when a comeback is just a click away!
If I were granted two wishes...
Timer Options
One thing that could make Mahjong Solitaire even more enjoyable would be offering an untimed mode. . Instead of the10-minute limit, players could select a "relaxed" version with no timer, allowing them to enjoy the game at their own pace.
Some special editions, like Mother's Day Mahjong, offer an Untimed Mode.
Tile Shuffle
A one-time shuffle option for the tiles, like the one available in the 3-D version of the game, Mahjong Dimensions, would be a great addition, especially when you feel stuck. This would help mix things up and make it more manageable without removing the challenge altogether.
Final Thoughts
Mahjong Solitaire is a game I highly recommend for anyone looking to relax, destress, and still engage their mind. The beautiful music, collectible achievements, and challenging gameplay make it perfect for a cozy evening or a quick break. Whether you’re an experienced player or just starting, this Mahjong classic has something for everyone. If you’re looking for a fun yet soothing single-player game, give Mahjong Solitaire a try—you won’t regret it!
It’s a game that can be played anytime, anywhere, making it a wonderful way to escape from a busy day. The unique combination of challenge and relaxation is what keeps me coming back, and I’m sure you’ll feel the same once you give it a shot.
Hungry for more Mahjong? Learn about the meaning of the tiles, or explore Arkadium’s collection of free online mahjong.
If you give the game a try, let me know how it went down in the comments below. Happy playing and I’ll see you on the Mahjong Solitaire leaderboard!