Five Star Gift Ideas

For your grandson who is interested in videogame development, there are several meaningful and personal gift ideas that can inspire and support his passion. Here are some options to consider:

1. Game Development Books: Look for books that explore the various aspects of game development such as coding, storytelling, level design, and character creation. "The Art of Game Design: A Book of Lenses" by Jesse Schell and "Game Programming Patterns" by Robert Nystrom are highly recommended options that can provide valuable insights and knowledge for aspiring game developers.

2. Online Courses or Tutorials: Enroll your grandson in an online course or tutorial platform that offers game development programs. Websites like Udemy, Coursera, or Codecademy offer a wide range of options for learning game development skills, including programming languages like Unity or Unreal Engine. This gift will not only enhance his abilities but also provide him with the opportunity to learn from industry professionals.

3. Game Development Software: Consider gifting your grandson licensed software such as Unity or Unreal Engine, which are widely used in the game development industry. These programs provide powerful tools and resources for creating games, including game engines, animation tools, and scripting languages. With access to professional-grade software, your grandson can bring his creative ideas to life and experiment with different game development techniques.

4. Game Development Starter Kit: Look for starter kits or development kits specifically designed for beginners in game development. These kits often include components like game controllers, sensors, and pre-programmed microcontrollers. They allow aspiring game developers to explore hardware integration and gain hands-on experience in creating their own games from scratch.

5. Mentorship or Networking Opportunities: Connect your grandson with experienced game developers or gaming communities where he can find guidance and inspiration. Mentorship programs or online forums like Indie Game Developer Forums or Stack Exchange can provide valuable advice and a platform for connecting with like-minded individuals who share his passion for game development.

6. Game Design Sketchbook or Notebook: Encourage your grandson to keep a game design sketchbook or notebook where he can jot down game ideas, strategies, and sketches. Consider getting him a high-quality notebook specifically designed for game designers, featuring grids and sections to organize his thoughts and designs.

7. Game Accessories: Treat your grandson to some gaming accessories like a mechanical keyboard or a gaming mouse. These can enhance his gaming experience while also reminding him of his passion for game development.

Remember, the most meaningful gift you can give your grandson is your encouragement and support. Show interest in his projects, ask him about his progress, and celebrate his achievements. By providing him with resources, tools, and opportunities to explore his passion for game development, you are not only nurturing his interests but also empowering him to pursue his dreams.

Or you can get him 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!”