Two editions, different layouts
PG SOFT’s manuals describe Mahjong Ways with 1,024 ways and Mahjong Ways 2 with 2,000 ways. The sequel adds a row to each of the three central reels. They share a tile theme, but the exact edition matters when reading a rules screen.
A larger ways count describes possible position combinations under the game’s evaluation rules. It is not a direct measure of the probability of a prize, and it does not establish that the sequel is easier to win.
Put the RTP gap in proportion
The published values are 96.92% for the original and 96.95% for the sequel. The difference is 0.03 percentage points. On a hypothetical ₱10,000 of turnover, that corresponds to ₱3 in mathematical expected return.
That small model difference does not predict the better result in a personal session. The more useful editorial comparison is whether the reader can follow the layout and the transformations clearly. Both reviews separate provider statements from unperformed mobile gameplay tests.
Why two maximum figures appear
The manuals distinguish an advertised maximum from the maximum recorded in a stated simulation. Those fields answer different questions and should not be collapsed into one claim about ordinary play. The individual reviews retain the labels so readers can see which figure they are reading.
A simulated observation does not prove that the advertised ceiling is a typical target or a result someone should keep staking to reach. A maximum award also says nothing by itself about how often a feature appears.
Our comparison takeaway
For learning the shared transformation concept, the original gives a less crowded reference layout. The sequel is the useful follow-up when examining how taller central reels affect the reading task. This is an editorial judgment from the documented rules and supplied media, not a report of a tested preference.
Both source manuals were checked for this article on 22 September 2026. They are existing games; this article is a comparison, not news of a new launch. Follow the individual review links for facts, sources, scoring and limitations.