Before the first turn can take place, the first player may choose to take the Upcard or “Pass”. If that player takes the card, they then must discard a card and the game begins; if they pass, the other player is given the chance to take the Upcard. If the other player takes the Upcard, they then must discard a card and the game begins; if they also pass, the first player draws a card from the Stock Pile.