Five Star Gift Ideas

Celebrating an anniversary with a friend who is passionate about video game design offers a unique opportunity to gift something both meaningful and relevant to their interests. Here are some thoughtful gift ideas:

1. **Specialized Workshop or Course**: Consider enrolling your friend in an online class or workshop focused on video game design. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or even master classes from industry professionals can enhance their skills.

2. **Art of Game Design Book**: There are several must-read books for those interested in game design. "The Art of Game Design: A Book of Lenses" by Jesse Schell is a comprehensive guide that combines philosophy with practical methodologies to enhance their understanding of game creation.

3. **Graphic Drawing Tablet**: If your friend enjoys designing characters or environments, a high-quality drawing tablet like Wacom Intuos could be invaluable. This tool would enable them to bring their creative visions to life with precision.

4. **Software Subscription**: Gift them a subscription to design software like Adobe Creative Cloud, which includes programs such as Photoshop and Illustrator, or a game engine subscription like Unity or Unreal Engine if they prefer creating interactive environments.

5. **Customized Game Design Journal**: Personalize a journal where they can scribble ideas, sketches, and plans. Having a dedicated space for brainstorming could be inspiring and practical, offering a touch of personalization as well.

6. **Indie Game Development Book**: Indie games are a significant part of the gaming landscape. Books like "Indie Games: The Complete Introduction to Indie Gaming" can provide insights into the indie scene and inspire your friend to create something unique.

7. **Merchandise from Their Favorite Game**: If there’s a particular video game or designer they idolize, merch from that game, such as posters, clothing, or artbooks, can make for a personalized present that celebrates their passion.

8. **Ticket to a Gaming Expo**: Events like PAX or the Game Developers Conference (GDC) are invaluable experiences for anyone who is serious about game design. You could gift them a pass to one of these events.

9. **Game Design Software Upgrade**: If they already have game design software, consider buying an upgrade or additional plugins that can enhance their current software.

10. **Personalized USB Drive**: A custom-designed USB drive shaped like a gaming console or character, pre-loaded with useful resources like design templates or tutorial videos, would be a thoughtful gift with a personal touch.

Ensure your gift is matched to their current needs or interests within the realm of video game design. Adding a personal note expressing admiration for their creativity and support for their passion would make any of these gifts even more meaningful.

Or you can get her/him a star map with the date of your anniversary.