From the publisher’s rulebook

Who goes first in Defenders of the Realm?

Eagle Games English rules

The most aggressive player goes first. If the group cannot decide, roll dice to choose a starter.

Official tie-break or fallback

Roll dice if the group cannot decide who is most aggressive.

Rule details

Play proceeds clockwise, to each player's left.

Source & edition

Defenders of the Realm: English rulesEagle Games · Playing the Game · Checked 2026-09-23Printed page references: 5
PDF page 5

Image: © Eagle-Gryphon Games and credited artists · Eagle-Gryphon Games official product page

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<blockquote class="whogoesfirst-rule" cite="https://whogoesfirst.fun/games/defenders-of-the-realm-eagle-en/">
  <p><strong>Who goes first in Defenders of the Realm?</strong> The most aggressive player goes first. If the group cannot decide, roll dice to choose a starter.</p>
  <p>Source: <a href="https://whogoesfirst.fun/games/defenders-of-the-realm-eagle-en/">Official starting rule on Who Goes First?</a> (Eagle Games English rules)</p>
</blockquote>

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