From the publisher’s rulebook

Who goes first in Codenames: Duet?

CGE English refreshed edition

Either player can give the opening clue. The first player to find a good clue gives it and starts the game.

Rule details

The players alternate giving clues and guessing. This opening describes the two-player game.

Source & edition

Codenames: Duet: English rulebookCzech Games Edition · How to play: Either of you can be the clue-giver on the first turn; On the next turn, the roles switch · Checked 2026-09-26Printed page references: 4, 5
PDF page 4 PDF page 5

All 14 Czech Games Edition starting rules

Image: © Czech Games Edition and its credited cover illustrators · Czech Games Edition

If your rules call for a random choice, use the player picker.

If there’s a tie

The rulebook doesn’t say. If you need a tie-break, pick a player at random.

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<blockquote class="whogoesfirst-rule" cite="https://whogoesfirst.fun/games/codenames-duet-cge-refreshed-en/">
  <p><strong>Who goes first in Codenames: Duet?</strong> Either player can give the opening clue. The first player to find a good clue gives it and starts the game.</p>
  <p>Source: <a href="https://whogoesfirst.fun/games/codenames-duet-cge-refreshed-en/">Official starting rule on Who Goes First?</a> (CGE English refreshed edition)</p>
</blockquote>

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