From the source rules
Who goes first in Tinderblox?
English Alley Cat Games rules, two sheets listing 23 Tinderblox cards

Whoever most recently went camping takes the first turn.
Rule details
On a turn, reveal a card and use the tweezers to build the fire. Pass the tweezers clockwise when your turn ends.
Source & edition
- Tinderblox: Alley Cat Games rulesAlley Cat Games · Overview; Components; How to Play; credits. PDF pages are folded sheets · Checked 2026-09-23Cited PDF pages: 1, 2
Image: © Alley Cat Games / box artist · Alley Cat Games (box image via Board Game Bliss)
If there’s a tie
The rulebook doesn’t say.
More starting rules
Browse available game rulesGames with a similar starting rule
CartagenaThe player who most recently went to the sea starts.
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Lost SeasWhoever most recently went to sea starts and takes the first-player token.
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