Mahjong Solitaire Layouts
A layout determines which tiles begin covered, blocked or exposed. Choosing a different shape changes the decisions you face even though the free-tile rule stays the same.
Turtle: the classic layered board
The Turtle is the best-known layout. Its wide base and central peak reward moves that open long edges while releasing the upper stack. It is a balanced place to learn planning.
Pyramid and Fortress: controlled pressure
Pyramid concentrates access in the upper layers, while Fortress uses dense blocks that open in stages. Both reward players who preserve duplicate symbols before removing an easy pair.
Dragon and Butterfly: manage both sides
Asymmetric or split layouts make cross-board scanning important. Progress both wings instead of clearing one isolated area, and prefer pairs that expose more than one future move.
Choose a layout for your session
Shorter layouts work well for a quick break. Denser boards and later strategic stages add hidden tiles, locks and surprise suit changes for a longer challenge.