Mahjong is among the twelve finalists for the National Toy Hall of Fame’s 2026 class. The Strong announced the shortlist in September and says the inductees will be named in early November.

The museum’s criteria look beyond a current burst of popularity. They include recognition, longevity, learning through play and innovation. Its account of Mahjong also notes the American game’s development through the National Mah Jongg League in the 1930s.

For American Mahjong players, the nomination is a moment to consider the game’s place in a much longer history of play. It covers Mahjong broadly, including the tradition from which American play developed. Finalist status is the milestone so far; public voting closed in September.