From the publisher’s rulebook
Who goes first in Rook?
Winning Moves English rules (2021 sheet)
The player at the dealer’s left starts the bidding. The player to the left of the dealer also makes the first lead, whether or not they won the bid.
Source & edition
- Rook — RulesWinning Moves Games · Partnership Rook: "Bidding" and "First Lead" · Checked 2026-10-01
If there’s a tie
The rulebook doesn’t say.
Game night gear
More starting rules
Browse available game rulesGames with a similar starting rule
- SpadesThe first dealer is chosen by a draw for high card. The player on the dealer’s left starts the bidding and makes the opening lead.
- EuchrePlayers draw cards; the lowest card deals first. The player to the dealer’s left decides on trump first and makes the opening lead. If that player’s partner is playing alone, the player across from the dealer leads.
- Phase 10Choose one player to be dealer. The player to the left of the dealer goes first.
- Sleeping QueensThe player to the left of the dealer goes first, and play continues clockwise.
- Crazy EightsThe player to the dealer’s left plays first, then play continues around the table.
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