Five Star Gift Ideas

For your dad who enjoys board game design and prototyping, there are several thoughtful and meaningful gift ideas to consider. These gift suggestions not only show your support for his passion but also provide him with tools and experiences to enhance his skills.

1. Board Game Design Book: Enhance your dad's knowledge and skills by gifting him a book on board game design. There are many popular titles available, such as "The Board Game Designer's Guide" by Joe Slack or "Game Design Workshop: A Playcentric Approach to Creating Innovative Games" by Tracy Fullerton. These books provide valuable insights and guidance for aspiring board game designers.

2. Game Design Software: Equip your dad with professional game design software to bring his ideas to life. Consider purchasing software like Tabletop Simulator or Tabletopia, which allows game creators to simulate and prototype board games digitally. This can serve as a valuable tool for your dad to experiment with different game mechanics, layouts, and playtesting before investing in physical prototypes.

3. Craft Supplies: Help stock your dad's workspace with essential craft supplies. Consider getting high-quality materials like blank game boards, cards, and tokens that he can use to create and prototype his designs. Additionally, provide him with various crafting tools such as markers, colored pencils, scissors, and glue to aid in the creative process.

4. Design Consultation: Treat your dad to a design consultation session with an experienced board game designer. This can be an invaluable opportunity for him to learn from professionals and get feedback on his ideas and concepts. Look for industry experts or local board game design groups that offer personalized consultations or workshops.

5. Subscription Box: A subscription to a board game design subscription box can be an exciting and practical gift. Services like The Game Crafter's "Game Design Toolbox" or "Board Game Of The Month Club" offer monthly deliveries of unique game components, prototyping materials, and design challenges to inspire your dad's creativity.

6. Board Game Convention Tickets: Surprise your dad with tickets to a board game convention near you or in a location he has always wanted to visit. These events provide opportunities to connect with fellow designers, attend workshops, and gain exposure in the gaming industry. Attending such conventions can be an excellent source of inspiration and networking for him.

7. Customized Game Accessories: Personalize your gift by creating custom game accessories for your dad. You can design and print custom-made playmats, game trays, or even laser-engraved dice or tokens with his name, favorite designs, or quotes related to board game design. These unique accessories will not only be useful but also remind him of your support and thoughtfulness.

Remember, the most meaningful gift you can give your dad is your support and encouragement for his passion. Consider accompanying any physical gifts with a heartfelt letter expressing your appreciation for his dedication to board game design and how it has inspired you.

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.”