What is the significance of mahjong joker tiles in the game and how do they impact gameplay?

In mahjong, joker tiles are significant because they can be used as wild cards to represent any other tile in the game. This allows players to complete winning hands more easily by substituting a joker for a needed tile. The presence of joker tiles can impact gameplay by adding an element of unpredictability and strategy, as players must decide when and how to use them to their advantage.