Style & Tiles is helping locals join the fun.
Four players, one table, and a wall of tiles. The first person to build a winning hand of 14 tiles gets to call out one word: “Mahjong!” This centuries-old game has become one of today’s fastest-growing social hobbies, and Style & Tiles is helping West Virginians become a part of it.
Played with colorful engraved tiles rather than playing cards, mahjong blends strategy, memory, and a little luck. Players race to complete specific tile combinations before anyone else at the table, making every draw and discard a chance to build a winning hand—or help an opponent.
Beyond the challenge and fun of the game, Morgantown mahjong instructor Terran Quinlan says mahjong’s recent popularity comes from something many people have been searching for. “I feel like people were craving some sort of connection,” says Quinlan. “People wanted something that wasn’t technology-related and something that brought people together.”
With the help of Style & Tiles, new players can learn the basics in Mahjong 101 classes before moving into guided play sessions, where beginners learn alongside others at similar skill levels. As confidence grows, players can advance into leagues and tournaments.
Whether participants leave with a winning hand or a new friendship, the goal stays the same: bringing people together around the table. In the Morgantown area, Style & Tiles hosts workshops at locations including The Annex, The F.A.R.M., and Short Story Brewing—find the full schedule on its website.
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