From the publisher’s rulebook

Who goes first in Hanabi?

English R&R Games rules, 2013 copyright

The player wearing the most colorful clothing takes the first turn.

Rule details

Play continues clockwise.

Source & edition

Hanabi: R&R Games rulesR&R Games · The Game on the second PDF sheet; edition credits on the first sheet · Checked 2026-09-23
PDF page 1 PDF page 2

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If there’s a tie

The rulebook doesn’t say.

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<blockquote class="whogoesfirst-rule" cite="https://whogoesfirst.fun/games/hanabi-rnr-en/">
  <p><strong>Who goes first in Hanabi?</strong> The player wearing the most colorful clothing takes the first turn.</p>
  <p>Source: <a href="https://whogoesfirst.fun/games/hanabi-rnr-en/">Official starting rule on Who Goes First?</a> (English R&amp;R Games rules, 2013 copyright)</p>
</blockquote>

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