When a player starts with a game loss, do they still roll to decide who goes first, or does the player with the game loss get to choose (as in game 2)?

Ruling: When a player starts with a game loss, it is treated as game 2, and the player who received the game loss gets to choose who goes first or second. No sideboarding is allowed.

Sequence:

• Game 1 is skipped due to the game loss
• The match proceeds directly to game 2
• The player who lost/skipped game 1 chooses who goes first or second
• No sideboarding occurs between the skipped game 1 and game 2

Nuances:

• While the rules state that game 1 turn order should be determined randomly, Tournament Organizers can use alternative methods (like higher seat) if announced at the beginning of the tournament
• The game loss scenario is not considered a game 1 situation requiring random determination