From the publisher’s rulebook

Who goes first in Ruthless?

Alley Cat Games English rules (2018)

Give the Start Player token to whoever can shout the most piratical “Arrrr!”. That player takes the first turn.

Read the publisher’s rulebook

Rule details

All players draw cards simultaneously before turns begin, then turns proceed clockwise from the token holder.

Pass the Start Player token clockwise at the end of each round.

If there’s a tie

The rulebook doesn’t say. If you need a tie-break, pick a player at random.

Source & edition

More starting rules

Browse available game rules

Found a different instruction in your edition? Send a correction with the game, edition, and source.