Five Star Gift Ideas

For your wife who enjoys board game designing and playtesting, there are several thoughtful and meaningful gifts you can consider. Here are a few ideas:

1. Designer's Notebook: A high-quality notebook specifically designed for game designers can be a perfect gift. Look for one with grid paper and sections for sketching game boards, making notes, and jotting down ideas. This will help her keep all her game concepts organized in one place.

2. Game Design Books: There are several books available on game design and theory that could enhance her knowledge and provide inspiration. Look for well-known titles such as "The Art of Game Design" by Jesse Schell or "Game Design Workshop" by Tracy Fullerton. These books can provide valuable insights and techniques to help her improve her game design skills.

3. Prototype Materials: Help her bring her game ideas to life by gifting her supplies for prototyping. This could include blank playing cards, wooden cubes or meeples, colored dice, or even a 3D printer if you're looking for a more extravagant gift. These materials will allow her to create and test her game concepts more easily.

4. Board Game Subscription Service: Consider subscribing her to a board game subscription box. These services send out a curated selection of board games each month, providing her with a regular influx of new games to play and draw inspiration from. Some subscription boxes also focus specifically on playtesting new games, which could be an excellent fit for her interests.

5. Game Design Software: If she enjoys digital game design, consider gifting her software specifically designed for creating board games. There are numerous options available, such as Tabletop Simulator, Board Game Designer Lab, or even professional game designing software like Adobe Creative Suite. These tools can be a game-changer for her creative process.

6. Attend a Game Design Convention or Workshop: Research nearby game design conventions or workshops and surprise her with tickets to attend. These events often offer opportunities to meet and learn from industry professionals, playtest new games, and gain valuable feedback. It can be a fantastic experience for her to network and learn more about the craft.

7. Customized Game Design Merchandise: Create personalized merchandise related to game design that she can use and enjoy. This could include a custom-designed T-shirt, a coffee mug with a game design motif, or even a wall art featuring iconic board game elements. These unique items will show that you appreciate and support her passion.

Remember to include a heartfelt note or card expressing your love and admiration for her skills and dedication to game design. By choosing a gift that aligns with her interests and hobbies, you will undoubtedly create a memorable and meaningful Christmas present for your wife.

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