Five Star Gift Ideas

For your friend who loves board game designing and prototyping, I have a few unique and meaningful gift ideas that will surely make their birthday extra special.

1. Board Game Design Book: Enhance their skills and inspire their creativity with a book dedicated to board game design. Consider popular titles like "The Board Game Designer's Guide" by Ian Schreiber or "Board Game Design Advice" by James Mathe. These books offer valuable insights, tips, and strategies for designing and prototyping board games.

2. Prototyping Tools: Help your friend take their game design ideas to the next level by gifting them prototyping tools. Consider getting them a set of prototyping materials like blank cards, game tokens, dice, and miniature figurines. These tools will allow them to bring their ideas to life and test their game designs more effectively.

3. Game Design Software: If your friend loves the digital aspect of game design, consider gifting them game design software such as Tabletop Simulator or Board Game Arena. These platforms allow game designers to create and playtest board games digitally, providing endless opportunities for prototyping and refining their designs.

4. Custom Game Components: Surprise your friend with personalized game components that reflect their unique game designs. Look for specialty shops or websites that offer custom-made game pieces, such as custom engraved dice, custom-designed meeples, or even custom card decks.

5. Game Design Workshop or Course: Help your friend broaden their knowledge and skills in board game design by gifting them a spot in a game design workshop or online course. These workshops offer hands-on experiences and expert guidance that will undoubtedly elevate their game design abilities.

6. Playtesting Session: Organize a playtesting session with their closest friends or fellow board game enthusiasts. This is a thoughtful gift that allows your friend to showcase their game design and receive valuable feedback from others. Make it even more memorable by including snacks, beverages, and a cozy ambiance for a fun-filled evening of playtesting.

7. Subscription to Board Game Magazines: Treat your friend to a subscription of board game magazines like "Tabletop Gaming" or "BoardGameGeek" magazine. These publications feature articles, interviews, and reviews that will keep them inspired and up to date with the latest trends in the world of board game design.

Remember, the best gift is one that aligns with your friend's passions and interests. Choose something that will not only enhance their board game designing and prototyping skills but also show them how much you support their creative endeavors.

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