Mixed Shifted Chows

What Is Mixed Shifted Chows

Mixed Shifted Chows in Chinese Mahjong is a 6-fan pattern achieved by forming three chows in the three different suits (Craks, Bams, Dots) with a consistent rank shift between them. While it can yield substantial points, it demands careful tracking of your partial sequences, vigilance about tile availability, and a willingness to pivot if the stepping pattern becomes unachievable. If the tiles fall into place, however, Mixed Shifted Chows offers a rewarding path to a high-scoring hand.

The Tile Pattern of Mixed Shifted Chows

Three Chows, One in Each Suit: Exactly one chow in Craks, one in Bams, and one in Dots.

Consistent Rank Shift

• Let the first chow cover ranks x, x+1, x+2.
• The second chow covers ranks x+d, x+d+1, x+d+2.
• The third chow covers ranks x+2d, x+2d+1, x+2d+2.
• The shift d is usually 1 or 2, because a bigger shift (like 3) would push the sequence beyond 9 if x is large, but theoretically any consistent shift is valid if it remains within ranks 1–9.

Fan Value of Mixed Shifted Chows

Under Chinese Mahjong scoring, Mixed Shifted Chows is worth 6 fan. This makes it a fairly high-value pattern, reflecting the difficulty of assembling three precisely stepped chows across three suits.

Strategies and Considerations of Mixed Shifted Chows

Potential Meld Calls: Because Mixed Shifted Chows focuses on sequences (chows), you can choose to meld discards that help complete each chow. However, you must be cautious not to break the stepping pattern if you are forced to pivot.

Surprise Factor: Opponents often watch for simpler patterns like Mixed Triple Chow or flush-based hands. They might not anticipate a stepped pattern until it’s nearly complete. Rigid Structure: You need specific ranks in each suit that follow the same shift d. This can reduce your flexibility in forming alternative sequences or sets.

Tile Availability: If crucial middle tiles are discarded or melded by opponents, continuing the stepped arrangement may be impossible. Track discards closely to see if your shift path remains viable.

Difficulty of Larger Shifts: While a shift of 1 (e.g., 2-3-4 / 3-4-5 / 4-5-6) is common, a shift of 2 or more can quickly push ranks past 9, limiting your possible starting points. For example, starting at 4 with a shift of 2 would lead to a final chow beginning at 8, which is the highest feasible. This demands careful tile counting.

Early Recognition: If you pick up partial sequences that suggest a stepping pattern (e.g., 2-3-4 in Characters and 3-4-5 in Bamboos), hold onto them to see if you can form the third chow in Dots with rank 4-5-6.

Balancing Speed vs. Complexity: Forcing a stepped chow pattern might slow your progress if you do not draw or see discards for the crucial bridging ranks. If your key tiles appear in other players’ melds or discards, consider switching to a simpler pattern.

Combining with Other Chow-Based Patterns: You might also find synergy with patterns like All Chows or No Honors, provided you keep to sequences and avoid honors. However, be aware you cannot also do Mixed Triple Chow with these exact same three chows—each pattern has distinct rank requirements.

Opponent Awareness:The moment you meld two suspiciously stepping sequences, savvy opponents may guess you aim for Mixed Shifted Chows. They might withhold tiles that would complete the final chow. Remain mindful of partial reveals.