1st Edition

Graphic Design for Board Games

By Daniel Solis Copyright 2025
    264 Pages 117 Color & 17 B/W Illustrations
    by CRC Press

    264 Pages 117 Color & 17 B/W Illustrations
    by CRC Press

    Board games are increasingly recognized as an artform of their own, but their design and aesthetics are just as important as their gameplay mechanics. In this handbook, art director and graphic designer Daniel Solis offers his 20+ years of expertise in graphic design in tabletop gaming.

     

    With a sense of humor, plenty of examples, and simple tips, Graphic Design for Board Games covers everything from typography to retail presence. Learn how to effectively use graphic design elements to enhance player experience. Create stunning game components, clear rulebooks, and effective game boards that will keep players engaged.

     

    Key Features:

    • Highlights unique challenges and solutions of graphic design for board games.
    • Includes commentary from over a dozen board game graphic designers.
    • Explains complex concepts with numerous visual examples.
    • Trains designers to incorporate heuristics, accessibility, and semiotics.

     

    Newcomers will learn introductory concepts of visual communication. Intermediate designers will find ways to anticipate common visual obstacles and improve playtest results. Experienced veterans will find insightful comments shared by fellow professionals.

     

    Soon you’ll design unforgettable gaming experiences for your players!

                    Introduction

    Chapter 01          Typography

    Chapter 02          Iconography

    Chapter 03          Diagrams

    Chapter 04          Cards

    Chapter 05          Punchouts

    Chapter 06          Game Boards

    Chapter 07          Rulebooks

    Chapter 08          Boxes and Packaging

    Chapter 09          Conclusion

    Biography

    Daniel Solis is an art director, graphic designer, and board game designer with over 20 years of industry experience. He has overseen the visual development of over 100 board games and accessory products, including HeroClix “Iconix" series, Marvel: Remix, Dungeons & Dragons: Onslaught, Star Trek: Captain’s Chair, Sidereal Confluence: Remastered Edition, Clash of Cultures: Monumental Edition, Jokkmokk, and Fantasy Realms Deluxe Edition. As a game designer, his games include Kodama: the Tree Spirits published by Indie Games Studios and Junk Orbit published by Renegade Games Studios. His video tutorials have taught hundreds of designers how to quickly prototype their card games. He lives in North Carolina.