From the publisher’s rulebook

Who goes first in Tholos?

Perro Loko Games English section of multilingual rules

The player who proves more knowledgeable about the Olympus of the gods goes first. The rules also allow the players to decide the starter by any other means.

Rule details

The two players alternate turns, beginning with the chosen starter.

Ornament tiles and location tokens belong to the advanced mode and are set aside for the basic game.

Source & edition

Tholos: multilingual rules, English sectionPerro Loko Games · Game Setup, step 6; How to Play · Checked 2026-09-25Printed page references: 10
PDF page 3

Image: © Perro Loko Games · Perro Loko 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.

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<blockquote class="whogoesfirst-rule" cite="https://whogoesfirst.fun/games/tholos-perro-loko-en/">
  <p><strong>Who goes first in Tholos?</strong> The player who proves more knowledgeable about the Olympus of the gods goes first. The rules also allow the players to decide the starter by any other means.</p>
  <p>Source: <a href="https://whogoesfirst.fun/games/tholos-perro-loko-en/">Official starting rule on Who Goes First?</a> (Perro Loko Games English section of multilingual rules)</p>
</blockquote>

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