How does the ladder system work?
This is an example of the layout if we have 14 players. At the end of a game, the switch of players will be as the blue arrow shown above. This means that the higher table you climbed up, the less likely you will get to sit-out. Table 1 will tend to play with the same players while other tables will be playing with 2 different players.
Why was this implemented?
- To encourage and promote skilled and committed players.
- To find out whether majority of players prefer this system as some players wish to play with players of their standard. In the past, there are players who ask why are there regular players in MCR section but not in Riichi section. We will find out whether this system will give us that result.
I didn’t register for the first session so I am most probably going to sit-out right?
You never know, For one, there might have a good number of players, or there might be latecomers. For two, you don’t know who will turn up and how many players with 0 table points will turn up. It is too early to predict at this stage.
Technically speaking, I am in a disadvantage now right?
Yes but by a little margin. Not many players commit to every session in Riichi section. It is not too late at all to start committing now or from next session onwards.
For example, there are players like me who attended 1st session but not able to attend the following two. Anybody who attend the following two can easily get a minimum of 4 table points even if he gets last position in all games.
How can I catch up in table points if I am always sitting out?
Commit to as many session as possible, be as skilled as possible, you will eventually be pushed up as the newcomers come in.
Will the organisers be always at table 1 since they have highest priority to play?
No. They will still be seated according to rankings so they will still face risk of sitting out if they are at the last table.
Will this system be permanent?
No. This is a trial. It is to examine the effect of this system it has on us.
Riichi Mahjong in Singapore 