From the publisher’s rulebook
Who goes first in Abyss?
Bombyx original English US base-game rulebook
Randomly determine the starting player. Play then proceeds clockwise.

Source & edition
- Abyss — English US base-game rulebookBombyx · Contents & Setup step 9; Game Overview turn order · Checked 2026-09-28
Image: © Bombyx; artwork by Xavier Collette · Bombyx · Editorial fair use (Reduced packaging image used to identify the cited game edition in an independent first-player-rule reference; it does not substitute for the game or the artwork.)
If your rules call for a random choice, use the player picker.
Rule details
The rulebook does not prescribe a particular random selection method.
This answer covers the base game, not the Kraken, Leviathan, or De Profundis expansions.
Game night gear
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Found a different instruction in your edition? Send a correction with the game, edition, and source.