Editing Rules of Go (section)

==== Players ====
'''Rule 1. Go is a game between two players, called Black and White.'''

The choice of black or white is traditionally done by chance between players of even strength. The method of selection is called ''nigiri''. One player (A) takes a handful of white stones; the other player (B) then places either one or two black stones on the board, indicating "even" or "odd". Player A counts the number stones in their hand to determine whether there is an odd or even number. If the number of stones matches the other player's selection of "even" or "odd", Player B will play the black stones; if not, they will take the white stones.

When players are of different strengths, the weaker player takes black. Black may also pre-place several handicap stones before play begins, to compensate for the difference in strength—see below.