Description

"Mahjong Kyou Jidai: Cogal Houkago Hen" is a digital adaptation of the traditional Chinese game mahjong, tailored specifically for the Sega Saturn platform. Released exclusively in Japan, this game combines classic mahjong gameplay with a distinct anime style, featuring "cogal" characters—stylized representations of fashionable Japanese high school girls from the "kogal" subculture, popular during the game’s release in the 1990s. The player engages in mahjong matches against various characters, each with unique personalities and play styles, progressing through different levels and scenarios primarily set in after-school environments, reflecting the "Houkago Hen" (After School Edition) part of the title.

The gameplay in "Mahjong Kyou Jidai: Cogal Houkago Hen" sticks closely to the rules of traditional mahjong, requiring skill, strategy, and a bit of luck to defeat opponents. The game is noted for its detailed graphics and character animations, utilizing the Sega Saturn's capabilities to enhance visual presentation and player engagement. Although primarily focused on the Japanese market, where mahjong is a popular pastime, the game's distinctive blend of cultural themes and engaging mechanics presents an interesting case study in how traditional board games were adapted into video game formats during the 1990s. The game also offers insights into Japanese youth culture of the era, making it a valuable piece for collectors and enthusiasts of retro gaming and Japanese pop culture.