Five Star Gift Ideas

For your friend who is passionate about board game design and prototyping, you can surprise them with a thoughtful and engaging gift that aligns with their interest. Here are a few ideas that will surely be appreciated:

1. Board Game Design Book: Enhance your friend's knowledge and skills by gifting them a book specific to designing and prototyping board games. One highly recommended book is "The Board Game Designer's Guide: The Easy 4 Step Process to Create Amazing Games" by Joe Slack. This book provides practical advice, industry insights, and step-by-step instructions to help aspiring designers bring their ideas to life.

2. Game Design Software: Consider getting your friend a subscription to a game design software such as Tabletop Simulator or Tabletopia. These platforms allow users to prototype, playtest, and refine their board game ideas digitally. Your friend will appreciate the opportunity to experiment with different designs and mechanics, and potentially even showcase their creations to a wider audience.

3. Prototyping Materials: Help your friend elevate their physical prototyping process by gifting them essential materials like blank game boards, cards, dice, and game tokens. Companies like The Game Crafter offer a wide range of high-quality prototyping supplies that your friend can use to bring their ideas to life.

4. Design Workshop or Course: Enroll your friend in a board game design workshop or course. This will provide them with an opportunity to learn from experienced designers, receive feedback on their ideas, and network with like-minded individuals. Studios and game stores often host such events, and some online platforms offer courses specifically tailored to board game design.

5. Custom Dice: Dice are an essential component of many board games, and having unique dice can add a special touch to a game prototype. Consider getting your friend a set of custom-designed dice with their initials or a favorite symbol engraved on them. Websites like Chessex allow you to create personalized dice sets that your friend can proudly incorporate into their designs.

6. Game Design Journal: Encourage your friend to document their creative process and ideas with a dedicated game design journal. This can serve as a valuable resource for brainstorming, sketching mechanics, and tracking progress. Look for a journal with sections for notes, sketches, and reflections to help your friend stay organized and inspired.

7. Board Game Prototyping Kit: Surprise your friend with an all-in-one prototyping kit that includes various tools and materials they might need. From multi-colored cardstock, markers, and miniature figures to adhesive materials and blank game boards, this comprehensive kit will allow your friend to experiment and refine their concepts.

Remember, the most meaningful gift is one that shows you appreciate and support your friend's passions. By choosing a gift that encourages their love for board game design and prototyping, you will not only make their birthday special but also inspire them to continue pursuing their creative endeavors.

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