I have calculated all of the odds. No matter how I do the math, I keep coming to the same result. The game is changed vastly depending on the first attack. The start of the game is usually determined by the host. But be weary, it may be extremely casual to say “I will do the first attack” or even “You can do the first attack”, but it’s always best to have a finite way to determine the start of the game. Knowing how big the start of the game is, helps you determine how to start it.
I will break down each possible example of what could occur provided either you or your opponent get the first attack.
Scenario 1: Free for All 4 Players: You are up first and get to determine the first attack. The nature of the game forces you to always choose a target and the card you use. Due to this nature, you will have to announce the first person you will be attacking on the field, and which card you want to lead with. Being the first player that has to attack means you are opening the door to be attacked. Whether you like it or not, you are painting a target on your back regardless of who you hit first. The player you attack will more than likely be able to turn the crowd against you because you did the “hit first”. If you lead with a strong card, you are also putting that card at risk. If other players see you as a threat at the beginning of the game, it will be easier for them to choose their targets as their turns are reached. This game is not only a game of having the best cards, it’s also a game of strategy, and you have to be prepared for every situation.
Scenario 2: Free for All 3 Players: Your opponent goes first. This means that they have the unfortunate disadvantage of having to target another player at the beginning of the game. Painting a target on their back for subsequent players. The benefit they have is picking up the first item, which can give them advantage later in the game. If the opponent chose to attack you, you can very easily rebuttal and strike them back. Provided you don’t get attacked though, you can open the door for an even better strategy. You can work alongside their victim, and get the feel for the characters they have as well. This will allow you to get a good read on the room and have an understanding of who you are up against. If you have non-threatening cards you are more likely to not be attacked. This may also be a good excuse for you to slowly chip away at the health of the stronger characters on the field. Take advantage of every opportunity given.
Scenario 3: 1 v 1: In a one on one battle, you don’t have to worry about other combatants forming a mob mentality. You don’t have any other options, you are forced to attack your only opponent. It’s best to know who is in your attacker’s hand. If you get the first strike, and were able to analyze the cards they are using, you could be at a huge advantage. Since you will also be receiving the first item, the first move in a one on one battle is game changing. Provided the opponent gets the first attack in a one on one, you could be at a huge disadvantage. You might want to have a backup, or a strategy in-case of each situation.
Given those examples please be very careful how the first attacker is chosen. Be spatially aware of who your opponents are using at all times. You want to be able to take town the stronger characters, and be aware of the people purposefully using bad characters. If you are playing in a big crowd, it might be a good opportunity to go for a reroute. This will not paint a target on anyone’s back, will not cause vendettas through the game, and will give you the opportunity to see who is gunning for you.
… But no matter who is chosen the rest of the game will have consequences.