From the publisher’s rulebook
Who goes first in Tikal?
Rio Grande English edition
In the standard game, the oldest player goes first. Play then continues clockwise.
Rule details
In the auction version, the oldest player opens the first bidding. The highest bidder takes the first turn; if everyone passes, the first player to pass takes that turn for free.
If there’s a tie
The rulebook doesn’t say.
Source & edition
- Tikal — English rulebookRio Grande Games · Playing the game; Auction version — Bidding for the first turn · Checked 2026-09-26
More starting rules
Browse available game rulesGames with a similar starting rule
- TajutoThe oldest player goes first.
- TsuroThe oldest player takes the first turn.
- Kingdom BuilderThe oldest player takes the start-player tile and takes the first turn.
- VillageThe oldest player takes the starting-player marker and starts.
- Lost CitiesThe oldest player begins. After that, the players alternate turns.
Found a different instruction in your edition? Send a correction with the game, edition, and source.