Five Star Gift Ideas

For your daughter who is passionate about board game design and prototyping, I have a few gift ideas that could enhance her skills and bring her joy during the holiday season.

1. Board Game Design Book: Consider getting her a book specifically focused on board game design. "The Art of Game Design: A Book of Lenses" by Jesse Schell is a highly recommended choice. It is a comprehensive resource that covers all aspects of game design, including mechanics, storytelling, and aesthetics. This book will provide her with valuable insights and techniques to enhance her skills and creativity.

2. Game Design Software: If she doesn't already have one, consider gifting her a subscription to a game design software platform. Tabletop Simulator is a popular choice among budding game designers. It provides a virtual sandbox where she can digitally create and playtest her board game ideas. This software will allow her to prototype, tweak, and refine her designs with ease.

3. Prototyping Materials: Every game designer needs prototyping materials, and there is a wide range of options you can consider. Basic supplies like blank cards, dice, and pawns are essential. You can also get her special prototyping tools like card sleeves, miniatures, or even a 3D printer if you're feeling generous. These materials will enable her to bring her game concepts to life and experiment with different ideas.

4. Board Game Design Workshops or Courses: Look for local or online workshops or courses that focus on board game design. Many organizations and game designers offer classes or seminars where she can learn from industry professionals. These experiences will provide her with valuable knowledge, feedback, and networking opportunities with fellow designers.

5. Unique Board Games: Expand her collection of board games by choosing ones that showcase innovative design or mechanics. Look for games known for their creativity, unique gameplay, or strategic depth. Games like "Catan," "Ticket to Ride," or "Pandemic" are highly regarded and can inspire her creative process. Alternatively, consider vintage or limited-edition games that could serve as both a source of inspiration and a collector's item.

6. Game Design Journals or Sketchbooks: A beautiful journal or sketchbook dedicated to her game design ideas would be a thoughtful gift. She can use it to draft and sketch her game mechanics, create maps, or jot down any other creative ideas that come up. This will allow her to keep her thoughts organized and have a tangible record of her progress.

Remember, the key is to support and encourage her passion for board game design. By providing her with resources, tools, and experiences that foster creativity and learning, you're giving a gift that will continue to inspire and fuel her love for this art form.

Or you can get her a star map with an important date you share.

Elaine Bornemeier says about Under Lucky Stars star maps:

“These are fabulous. They are gifts, so excited for my daughters to receive them for Christmas! Thank you!”