In many social and gaming situations, deciding who goes first can spark unexpected debates or slow down the fun. Whether you’re playing a board game, card game, or party activity, starting the game fairly sets the tone for everyone involved. Instead of defaulting to arbitrary methods like the oldest player or the loudest voice, there are many light-hearted and creative games designed specifically to determine who takes the first turn. These mini games are often just as fun as the main event, and they help break the ice, add laughter, and ensure fairness before competition begins.
Why Use a Game to Decide Who Goes First?
Choosing who goes first might seem simple, but in competitive or casual settings, people often want a fair and unbiased method. Using a quick and playful mini game makes the selection process feel less like a chore and more like part of the experience. It can also prevent arguments, keep things lighthearted, and build excitement before the real game begins.
Here are some key reasons to use a mini game to decide turn order:
- Fairness: Removes bias and keeps the decision neutral.
- Entertainment: Adds extra fun before the actual gameplay starts.
- Engagement: Keeps all players involved right from the start.
- Theme setting: Matches the energy or style of the main game.
Classic Turn-Deciding Games
Rock, Paper, Scissors
Probably the most well-known way to decide who goes first, Rock, Paper, Scissors (RPS) is quick, fair, and requires no setup. It works best with two players but can be adapted for groups through elimination rounds.
How to play: Players count down and simultaneously show one of three hand gestures. Rock beats scissors, scissors beats paper, and paper beats rock. The winner advances or goes first.
High Roll
If you’re playing a game that already includes dice, the high roll method is a natural fit. Each player rolls a die, and the highest number wins. In case of a tie, only the tied players roll again.
This method is especially useful for tabletop RPGs or board games that use custom dice, making it feel integrated and purposeful.
Closest to the Number
One player secretly picks a number within a range (e.g., 1 to 20), and everyone else guesses. The closest guess without going over wins, or just the closest guess depending on your preference.
This method adds a small guessing game element, and it can be fun to see how players try to predict the hidden number.
Creative and Fun Ways to Choose First Player
The Loudest Yell
For party games or rowdy gatherings, a simple game of ‘who can yell the loudest’ may be the perfect (and chaotic) way to choose a first player. This works best in informal settings or among friends who don’t mind a little noise.
Variation: Instead of yelling, players can make the funniest sound or weirdest noise, and a judge picks the winner.
Random Object Grab
Place a small object in the center of the table. Players close their eyes or look away, then on the count of three, try to grab it first. The fastest wins. This game tests reflexes and anticipation, and it’s great for getting people focused and excited.
Who Has the Most of Something?
Ask a trivia-style question like, Who has the most keys in their pocket? or Who has visited the most countries? Whoever fits the criteria goes first. This method sparks conversation and reveals interesting facts about players.
Be mindful to keep questions light and fun, avoiding anything too personal or potentially uncomfortable.
The Color Challenge
Players must quickly find and touch an object in the room of a specific color (e.g., red). The last person to do so is eliminated or goes last. Repeat until one person remains to go first. It’s fast, silly, and gets people moving.
Theme-Based Selection Ideas
In-Character Choice
For games with roleplaying or thematic elements, such as fantasy, sci-fi, or mystery games, let players decide who goes first based on character traits. For example, the player whose character would logically act first (e.g., the fastest, the bravest, the most paranoid) gets the first move.
This method immerses players into the game’s world and can become part of the storytelling.
Story Prompt Showdown
Each player makes up a quick story or reason why their character should go first. The group votes on the most creative or entertaining argument. This method encourages creativity and involvement before the actual game even begins.
App and Tech-Based Randomizers
With smartphones readily available, some players prefer using apps or digital tools to determine turn order. These can generate random player names or simulate dice rolls with added animations or sounds for flair.
- Random Name Pickers: Enter player names and let the app choose who starts.
- Spinner Wheels: Visually spin a wheel with player names or numbers.
- Voice Commands: Use voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant to pick a number or name randomly.
These tools add novelty and work well when physical components aren’t available or when remote play is involved.
Games to Decide Turn Order in Large Groups
Human Chain Reaction
Everyone stands in a circle, and the first person makes a motion (like clapping once or snapping). The motion goes around the circle as fast as possible. The person who breaks the rhythm or delays becomes last, while the one who starts it can go first.
Name Alphabet Game
List the first names of all players and arrange them alphabetically. The player whose name is first in the alphabet goes first, or in reverse alphabetical order for a twist. This method is simple, especially in classrooms or structured events.
Birthday Order
Arrange players based on their birth dates. The person with the earliest birthday in the calendar year goes first. For variety, go by the most recent birthday instead.
This method is straightforward and personal, helping players learn more about each other.
Make It a Tradition
Once a group settles on a favorite method to decide who goes first, it can become part of the tradition. Some groups may always start with a round of Rock, Paper, Scissors. Others might enjoy making up new challenges every time. Either way, a consistent system adds structure while allowing flexibility and fun.
In groups with kids or newcomers, these mini games help establish fairness and remove pressure, making everyone feel more included and ready to play.
Choosing who goes first doesn’t have to be dull or divisive. With a little creativity, it can become an enjoyable part of your game night ritual. Whether you prefer something quick and simple like dice rolling or a full-blown mini competition, there’s a method to suit every group and mood. Games to decide who goes first may seem small, but they’re a great way to start things off with energy, laughter, and fairness. The next time you break out a board game or card deck, don’t skip this step make it part of the fun.