From the publisher’s rulebook
Who goes first in Ethnos?
CMON original 2017 English game (first edition)

For the First Age, choose the first player at random. Play then proceeds to the left.
Source & edition
- Ethnos — original English rulebookCMON · Beginning a New Age, first-player paragraph; Playing Through an Age, first paragraph · Checked 2026-09-28
Image: © CMON and cover artist John Howe · CMON · Editorial fair use (Small official first-edition cover art identifies the original game discussed in this independent rules article and does not substitute for the product or artwork. This is an editorial fair-use assessment, not a licence or permission.)
If your rules call for a random choice, use the player picker.
Rule details
The random choice applies to the First Age. Later Ages start with the player who has the least Glory, with a separate printed tie rule.
Game night gear
More starting rules
Browse available game rulesGames with a similar starting rule
TapestryChoose the first player at random. Each player begins with an Income turn, and play proceeds clockwise.
Castle ComboRandomly choose the first player. That player takes the opening turn, then play proceeds clockwise.
Clans of CaledoniaChoose the starting player at random. The first round proceeds clockwise.
Sea Salt & PaperChoose the first player at random.
CuBirdsRandomly choose a dealer. The dealer takes the first turn, and play proceeds clockwise.
Found a different instruction in your edition? Send a correction with the game, edition, and source.