Five Star Gift Ideas

For your dad's birthday, why not surprise him with a gift that celebrates his passion for board game design and development? Here are a few meaningful and personal gift ideas that will surely make him feel appreciated:

1. Board Game Design Book: Enhance your dad's knowledge and creativity by gifting him a book on board game design and development. There are several highly acclaimed titles available, such as "The Art of Game Design: A Book of Lenses" by Jesse Schell or "Game Design Workshop: A Playcentric Approach to Creating Innovative Games" by Tracy Fullerton. These books can both inspire and educate him on the intricacies of creating engaging board games.

2. Board Game Prototyping Kit: Help your dad bring his game ideas to life by surprising him with a complete board game prototyping kit. This kit typically includes blank game boards, playing cards, dice, markers, and other essential components needed to create a prototype. It's an excellent gift that enables him to experiment with new game mechanics and refine his designs.

3. Board Game Convention Pass: Treat your dad to a board game convention where he can connect with like-minded enthusiasts, attend workshops, and gain insights from industry professionals. Many gaming conventions offer a wide range of activities, such as playtesting sessions, panel discussions, and game design competitions. Attending such an event can be both inspiring and valuable for your dad as he interacts with fellow designers and learns from industry leaders.

4. Customized Game Design Notebook: Get your dad a personalized notebook specifically designed for game design. You can have his name or a special message laser-engraved on the cover, making it a unique and thoughtful gift. This notebook will serve as a dedicated space for him to jot down ideas, sketch out game concepts, and keep track of his progress in designing and developing board games.

5. Game Design Software: Consider gifting your dad professional game design software, such as Tabletop Simulator or Board Game Designer Studio. These tools provide a platform for creating, testing, and refining board game prototypes digitally. With advanced features like 3D modeling, physics simulation, and multiplayer capabilities, these software programs can be a game-changer for your dad's creative process.

6. Subscription to a Board Game Design Magazine: Keep your dad updated on the latest trends and techniques in the board game industry by subscribing him to a board game design magazine. These publications often feature articles on game mechanics, interviews with renowned designers, and reviews of new releases. An annual subscription will provide your dad with a regular source of inspiration and a means to stay connected to the board game design community.

By choosing a gift that aligns with your dad's passion for board game design and development, you will not only make his birthday memorable but also demonstrate your support and appreciation for his interests.

Or you can get him a star map with the date when he was born.

Bridget Shields says about Under Lucky Stars star maps:

“I wanted a keepsake to give to my father for his birthday as he has terminal cancer. He was delighted by his gift. The process of ordering was easy and delivery was prompt. A great gift idea.”