Five Star Gift Ideas

If your grandson is into board game designing and playtesting, there are plenty of great gift options that can spark his creativity and help him further explore his passion. Here are a few ideas that might inspire you:

1. Designing Tools: Consider getting your grandson a set of designing tools specifically for board game creation. This can include items like cardstock, a variety of markers and pens, dice, and blank game components such as tokens, tiles, and pawns. These tools will allow him to create and prototype his own games more easily.

2. Board Game Design Books: There are numerous books available that delve into the art of board game design. Look for titles like "The Art of Game Design" by Jesse Schell, "A Book of Surrealist Games" by Alastair Brotchie, or "Board Game Design Advice" by James Mathe. These books can provide valuable insights, techniques, and inspiration for your grandson's design journey.

3. Playtesting Materials: Engage your grandson in the playtesting process with dedicated playtesting materials. Look for blank score sheets, feedback forms, game evaluation templates, and even small tokens or standees that can be used as game pieces during playtesting sessions. Encouraging him to test and refine his designs will help him become a better game designer.

4. Game Design Software: Explore game design software that is suitable for beginners, like Tabletop Simulator or GameMaker Studio. These programs allow users to create virtual board games, experiment with mechanics, and playtest them online with friends and other design enthusiasts. With this software, your grandson can bring his game ideas to life digitally.

5. Attend Workshops or Conventions: Consider gifting your grandson tickets to game design workshops or conventions. These events provide opportunities for him to learn from experienced designers, network with industry professionals, and participate in board game design challenges. Attending such events can be both educational and inspiring for him.

6. Subscription to Game Design Magazines: Give your grandson a subscription to a game design magazine, such as "The Game Crafter", "Casual Game Insider", or "Spielbox". These magazines offer insights into the board game industry, game designer interviews, and tips for creating and publishing successful games. Regularly receiving new content can keep his passion alive and provide valuable knowledge.

7. Customized Game Components: Surprise your grandson with unique and customized game components, such as personalized game tokens or custom-designed cards. Websites like The Game Crafter or DriveThruCards offer options to create and order these custom components, allowing his games to have a personal touch.

Remember, the most meaningful gift is one that shows you appreciate and support your grandson's interests. Encourage him to keep creating, playtesting, and honing his skills, and watch his love for board game design flourish.

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