From the publisher’s rulebook
Who goes first in Root?
Leder Games Law of Root, September 2024, standard setup · English
During standard setup, assign factions and determine the starting player and seating order randomly.
Rule details
The Advanced Setup rules also randomize the starting player and seating order.
Our interpretation
This record describes the standard multiplayer setup, not a faction-specific opening exception.
Source & edition
- Root: Leder Games Law of Root, September 2024, standard setupLeder Games · Law of Root §5.1.1; Advanced Setup appendix A.4 · Checked 2026-09-25
Image: © Leder Games · Leder Games
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.
More starting rules
Browse available game rulesGames with a similar starting rule
FortDetermine the starting player and seating order randomly. Give that player the first player card; that player begins, then turns proceed clockwise.
Ark NovaRandomly determine a start player. Turn order is clockwise.
Caverna: The Cave FarmersRandomly determine the player who gets the Starting player token.
AbyssRandomly determine the starting player. Play then proceeds clockwise.
AgricolaRandomly determine who gets the starting player token. That player gets 2 food; each other player gets 3 food.
Free game-night tools: score keeper · turn timer · dice roller · all tools
Found a different instruction in your edition? Send a correction with the game, edition, and source.