The points of issue
First UK Macmillan hardcover, 1988; pictorial dust jacket with the price on the flap; no later-printing statement. Second Culture novel. A signed/numbered limited issue also exists and is distinct from the trade first.
Is this the true first?
The UK Macmillan hardcover (1988) is the true first, preceding the US St. Martin's Press edition (January 1989) and all paperbacks. Priority to London.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
US St. Martin's and any club issues are later. Confirm the Macmillan imprint, the 1988 date, and the absence of a later-printing notice. Uncorrected proof copies exist and are not the trade first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Player of Games a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First UK Macmillan hardcover, 1988; pictorial dust jacket with the price on the flap; no later-printing statement. Second Culture novel. A signed/numbered limited issue also exists and is distinct from the trade first.
How do I tell the first printing from a later one?
Check the copyright page for the publisher's first-printing convention and confirm the points above. The UK Macmillan hardcover (1988) is the true first, preceding the US St. Martin's Press edition (January 1989) and all paperbacks. Priority to London.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
US St. Martin's and any club issues are later. Confirm the Macmillan imprint, the 1988 date, and the absence of a later-printing notice. Uncorrected proof copies exist and are not the trade first.
I have a first edition of The Player of Games — what should I do?
If you're clearing books, New Mexico Literacy Project offers free pickup in Albuquerque, any condition, and makes sure collectible copies aren't lost. To sell, see the author's collecting guide. Either way, nothing valuable ends up in a landfill.