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#6 Manufacturing a Board Game

Most Common Problems Faced When Making a Board Game

Posted on by Hero Time Limited

Creating your first board game is exciting, but it comes with challenges that can be tricky to navigate. To help you avoid some common pitfalls, we’ve gathered the most frequent problems game creators encounter based on our sales team’s experiences. This guide aims to provide quick solutions to help you prepare for the manufacturing process smoothly!

1. Unclear Game Rules

Problem: Many first-time creators struggle with writing clear, concise, and complete rulebooks. A confusing rulebook can lead to frustration and bad reviews from players.

Solution: Test your rulebook with people who haven’t played the game. Simplify where possible and make sure every mechanic is explained clearly, with examples.

2. Improper File Setup

Problem: Files not set up correctly for print, such as incorrect dimensions, bleed, or resolution, can lead to delays and additional costs.

Solution: Always follow the manufacturer’s file guidelines. Ensure your artwork is in the correct dimensions, includes bleed (usually 3-5mm), and is at least 300 DPI for sharp printing.

3. Color Inconsistencies

Problem: Using RGB instead of CMYK can cause colors to print inaccurately, leading to dull or incorrect shades on the final product.

Solution: Make sure your files are in CMYK mode and monitor total ink levels to avoid saturation issues. Stick to 225-245% maximum total ink coverage for best results.

4. Overly Custom Components

Problem: Creators often dream big and want custom components, but this can significantly increase costs and complexity, especially for smaller print runs.

Solution: Start with standard components for your first game. Once your project grows, you can explore custom options for future editions or expansions.

5. Unreadable Small Text

Problem: Small text in busy designs or multiple colors often becomes unreadable when printed, which impacts the gameplay experience.

Solution: Keep small text black only (0, 0, 0, 100) and ensure it is placed on a contrasting background. Avoid decorative fonts for critical information.

6. Ignoring Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs)

Problem: Creators often overlook the MOQ requirements and assume they can order any number of units, only to find the project isn’t feasible at lower quantities.

Solution: Plan your budget with MOQs in mind and understand the cost per unit may vary significantly based on the number of games you order. It’s often more economical to order in bulk.

7. Delays in Artwork Submission

Problem: Submitting artwork too late can push back production timelines, which affects your game’s release date, especially for crowdfunding campaigns.

Solution: Have all your artwork finalized and submitted well before your desired production start date. Aim for early completion to allow for unforeseen revisions.

8. Component Sizing Issues

Problem: Creators sometimes miscalculate the size of cards, tokens, or boards, leading to components that don’t fit properly in the box or are impractical for gameplay.

Solution: Double-check all dimensions before submitting. Use prototypes or online tools to visualize component sizes and ensure everything fits well.

9. Ignoring Packaging Design

Problem: Many creators focus on the game components and forget to consider the packaging. A poorly designed or fragile box can affect sales and customer satisfaction.

Solution: Treat your packaging as part of the game experience. Choose durable materials and ensure the box design reflects your game’s theme and quality.

10. Budgeting Too Low

Problem: First-time creators often underestimate costs, especially for shipping, fulfillment, and quality control, leading to financial stress or cutting corners.

Solution: Get a comprehensive quote early in the process, factoring in all aspects of production, shipping, and potential delays. Budget for contingencies to avoid surprises.

By being aware of these common challenges, you can save time, money, and frustration down the line. At Hero Time, we’re here to help guide you through the entire process, ensuring your game comes to life just as you envisioned. If you’re ready to get started or need assistance, feel free to contact us anytime!

Learn more about avoiding common artwork mistakes by checking out our guide on Most Common Mistakes for Game Artwork or watch our YouTube playlist on how to set up your game artwork for print!

#1 Designing A Board Game

Guide to Board Game Design Software

Posted on by Hero Time Limited

Designing card games, whether they’re traditional card decks or complex trading card games, requires both creativity and technical know-how. Whether you’re a seasoned designer or just starting out, the software you choose will significantly impact your workflow and the final product. While Adobe Illustrator is widely regarded as the industry standard for designing card art, it can be expensive for beginners. Luckily, there are more affordable alternatives that are gaining popularity among designers. Here, we’ll explore some of the most commonly used card game design software, providing insight into their features, strengths, and why they might be the right fit for you.

Adobe Illustrator: The Industry Standard

Adobe Illustrator remains the go-to software for professional designers and game developers. This vector graphics software provides unmatched precision and flexibility for creating intricate card designs. It’s the preferred choice for professionals due to its extensive features, robust toolset, and wide acceptance in the manufacturing process. However, its cost can be prohibitive, especially for new designers or those working on smaller projects.

If you have the budget, Illustrator is highly recommended, as many production teams, including our own, rely on its advanced functionality for pre-press tasks, ensuring designs are print-ready.

Affinity Designer 2: The Affordable Pro-Level Tool

If you’re looking for something comparable to Illustrator but at a more budget-friendly price, Affinity Designer 2 is one of the top choices. This vector graphics software is beloved by thousands of illustrators, designers, and game developers. Its ability to handle digital illustrations, logos, concept art, and unique graphics makes it incredibly versatile.

Some of the key features of Affinity Designer 2 include:

  • Real-time effects and adjustments: Create effects without slowing down your workflow.

  • Precise vector tools: Perfect for designing intricate card illustrations.

  • Seamless zoom: With a zoom capability of over 1,000,000%, your designs can be extremely detailed.

This software is a great choice if you’re looking for professional-grade design tools without the subscription cost of Adobe Illustrator.

Inkscape: Almost on Par with Premium Tools, but Free

Inkscape is a free and open-source vector graphics editor that punches above its weight when it comes to capability. It supports SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) format, making it ideal for card game design, which often requires clean, scalable artwork. While it lacks some of the advanced features found in Illustrator and Affinity Designer, Inkscape can handle most of the same tasks, such as creating paths, applying gradients, and exporting files in multiple formats.

Key advantages of Inkscape:

  • No cost: It’s completely free and continually updated by a community of developers.

  • Multiple-format compatibility: Inkscape supports a wide range of file formats, including SVG, making it easy to collaborate with others or send files to manufacturers.

  • Extensive tools: From complex path operations to bitmap tracing, Inkscape provides everything you need to craft detailed card art.

For a free tool, Inkscape is remarkably robust and frequently updated. It’s an excellent option for designers who want to keep their costs down without sacrificing too much in terms of capability.

Preparing Your Card Game for Print

Once your artwork is ready, there are a few critical steps to ensure your design is print-ready. Whether you’re using Illustrator, Affinity Designer, or Inkscape, following these guidelines will help ensure your card designs come out exactly as intended during production.

1. Setting Up File Specifications

Your design files need to meet certain specifications to ensure they’re suitable for print. Ensure your document is set to the correct dimensions, includes a bleed (extra space around the edges of your design to account for cutting inaccuracies), and is in the correct resolution (300 DPI is ideal for print).

2. Color Management

Make sure you’re using CMYK color mode, which is the standard for printed materials. RGB, which is used for digital displays, will produce inaccurate colors when printed. Additionally, be mindful of your ink coverage levels—aim for a total ink coverage of 225-245% maximum to avoid oversaturation. For small text, use black only (0, 0, 0, 100) to ensure it remains sharp and legible. Avoid using heavy ink combinations on fine details to prevent smudging or blurred prints during production.

3. Crisp and Clean Text

To ensure your text looks sharp and legible in the final product, convert your text to outlines. This prevents any potential font issues when the file is printed, ensuring the text remains exactly as you designed it.

4. File Handling

Keep your files organized and well-named, using formats that your manufacturer accepts (such as AI, PDF, or SVG). It’s also a good idea to compress files if necessary, without compromising quality, to make them easier to share.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

Using programs like Microsoft Word, Publisher, or PowerPoint for game design is not advisable. These tools aren’t designed for professional print work and can cause issues during the production process. Stick to the design tools mentioned above for a smooth design-to-production workflow.

For more detailed information on mistakes to avoid, check out our existing article on the Most Common Mistakes for Game Artwork.

Learn More About Prepping Artwork for Print

For a more comprehensive guide on how to set up your card artwork for print, we also recommend watching our YouTube playlist on setting up board game artwork.

By choosing the right software and following these tips, you can ensure that your card designs not only look fantastic but are ready for flawless production.

#6 Manufacturing a Board Game

Board Game Manufacturers in the UK

Posted on by Hero Time Limited

It’s understandable why many UK-based board game creators dream of manufacturing their games locally. The allure of easier communication, potentially lower shipping costs, and the ability to visit the factory in person is undeniable. However, when it comes to full-scale board game production, the options in the UK are surprisingly limited. While there are some print-on-demand services and prototype creators available, there are no large-scale board game manufacturers based in the UK that specialize in producing games for mass distribution.

Let’s delve into why this is the case and explore alternative manufacturing solutions that UK creators can consider.

The Challenges of UK-Based Board Game Manufacturing

Despite the UK’s strong history of board game design and a vibrant tabletop gaming community, the country lacks the large-scale manufacturing infrastructure found in countries like China, Germany, or the United States. Several factors contribute to this:

  • High Production Costs: Manufacturing in the UK tends to be more expensive due to higher labor costs, factory space prices, and material expenses. This makes it challenging for UK manufacturers to offer competitive prices, especially for smaller projects or indie creators.

  • Limited Infrastructure: Board game manufacturing requires specialized machinery and materials, which are not as readily available in the UK. Many manufacturers who do exist focus on print-on-demand or custom printing services rather than mass production.

  • Global Supply Chains: The majority of the raw materials and components used in board games – from paper and cardboard to plastic miniatures – are sourced from abroad. Even if a game were to be manufactured in the UK, many of the components would still need to be imported, adding to both the cost and production time.

Given these limitations, most UK-based game creators choose to work with international manufacturers, particularly in China, where the infrastructure for board game production is highly developed.

Why Consider Hero Time for Your Board Game Manufacturing?

For UK creators looking to bring their games to life, working with Hero Time, a China-based board game manufacturer, is a fantastic option. Here’s why:

  • Cost Efficiency: As a China-based manufacturer, we have access to lower labor, material, and factory space costs.These savings are passed on to you, allowing you to produce your game at a competitive price without sacrificing quality.

  • High-Quality Production: At Hero Time, we pride ourselves on maintaining Western standards of quality. We offer a range of premium materials and components to suit your game’s specific needs, whether you require custom miniatures, wooden pieces, or specialized cards.

  • Wide Range of Components: China’s manufacturing infrastructure offers unparalleled access to a wide variety of components. From detailed plastic miniatures to high-quality cards and custom tokens, you can design your game without worrying about limited options.

  • Personalized Service: We understand the concerns that come with working with an international manufacturer, which is why we offer personalized, English-speaking support throughout the process. Our team is available during UK working hours to ensure smooth communication and to assist with any questions you might have.

  • Direct Shipping to the UK: We offer competitive and convenient shipping options for UK creators, ensuring your games are delivered safely and on time. Plus, we can assist with navigating any customs or import processes, so you won’t have to worry about unexpected delays.

  • Proven Expertise: Hero Time has helped creators worldwide bring their games to market, from first-time designers to established publishers. Our team knows the ins and outs of the manufacturing process and can guide you every step of the way, from concept to production.

Let Us Help You Create Your Game

While the lack of UK-based manufacturers might seem like a hurdle, it actually opens up opportunities to work with experienced international partners like Hero Time. With our cost-effective production, high standards of quality, and personalized support, we’re here to make the manufacturing process as smooth as possible for UK creators.

If you’re ready to bring your board game to life or want to learn more about our services, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is happy to discuss your project, provide a free quote, or answer any questions you have.

Want to know more about the costs involved in board game manufacturing? Check out our next article, How Much Does It Cost to Make a Board Game?

#6 Manufacturing a Board Game

Guide to Board Game Materials

Posted on by Hero Time Limited

When designing a board game, the materials you choose significantly affect not only the feel and aesthetic but also the game’s durability, playability, and overall player experience. In this guide, we’ll explore the different materials commonly used in board games, from paper to wood and plastic, with an in-depth look at key metrics like durability, flexibility, and opacity. You’ll also discover why choosing the right materials is crucial, and we’ll offer insights into some professional recommendations for game creators.

Type of Paper

Paper is a fundamental component in board games, commonly used for cards, rulebooks, packaging, and tokens. However, not all paper is created equal. Paper quality is measured by several key factors: GSM (grams per square meter), bursting strength (a measure of how much force the paper can withstand before rupturing), elasticity, brightness, and opacity. Let’s break these down for each type of paper.

White Core Paper

  • Durability: Measured by its tear resistance, which refers to the paper’s ability to withstand force without tearing. For high-quality white core paper, the tear resistance is significantly stronger (measured in milliNewtons, mN), ensuring durability in game cards.

  • Elasticity: Low-quality white core can be bent back to shape only about 2 times, while higher-quality white core can handle up to 8 bends before it starts showing wear.

  • Brightness: Print quality is directly influenced by brightness. Low-quality white core paper has a brightness level of around 78%, while high-quality ranges from 87-93%, enhancing print vibrancy.

  • Opacity: Low-quality white core has an opacity of around 80%, which can lead to visible bleed-through when printed on both sides. High-quality white core is 90%+ opaque, ensuring no visibility from the other side.

  • Recommendation: For most games, we recommend using high-quality white core paper, especially at 350gsm, to ensure durability and print clarity.

Black Core Paper

  • Strength: Black core paper, typically stronger than white core, is known for its ability to withstand a greater amount of pressure and bending.

  • Elasticity: Both Chinese and German black core paper maintain their shape for a longer time. Chinese black core can bend back up to 8 times, while German black core can exceed 20 bends without showing signs of wear.

  • Brightness: Chinese black core ranges from 70-80%, while German black core sits at 78-85%, making it suitable for games where deep, rich colors are important.

  • Opacity: Both types of black core paper are 100% opaque, preventing any light from passing through and ensuring full privacy of the card’s reverse side.

CCNB Paper (Clay Coated News Back)

  • Usage: CCNB is typically used for gluing onto cardboard for packaging, token sheets, or display boxes, as it offers a balance of cost-effectiveness and flexibility.

  • Durability: It offers decent durability but is more susceptible to wear compared to high-quality core papers. Its burst strength is typically lower, making it more suitable for a printed layer on cardboard internal game components. Here as well, we have different qualities with density and brightness.

White Printing Paper

  • Durability: Commonly used for packaging, tuck boxes, and display boxes, white printing paper is durable enough for external use, though its coating is only on one side, leading to lower brightness and protection.

  • Brightness: It has a lower brightness level compared to core papers due to its single coating, typically around 70-80%.

Types of Cardboard

Cardboard is the backbone of many board game components, especially game boards, tokens, and inserts. It’s measured by several factors: GSM count (which influences thickness), durability (measured by compression strength in pounds), density, and humidity resistance.

Corrugated Cardboard

  • Strengths: Lightweight yet strong, corrugated cardboard is ideal for game boxes and shipping packaging. It offers excellent protection for game components inside the box.

  • Weaknesses: Not aesthetically appealing for components, and can be bulky.

  • Best For: Game boxes, packaging, and inserts.

High-Quality Cardboard

  • Durability: High-quality cardboard can withstand significant pressure in terms of compression strength, reaching up to 200 pounds in professional testing.

  • Density: High-density cardboard resists fraying along the edges when cut, making it ideal for detailed components like tokens.

  • Humidity Resistance: High-quality cardboard is often treated for moisture resistance, which prevents warping over time.

Low-Quality Cardboard

  • Durability: Low-quality cardboard has a lower compression strength, often around 100-150 pounds, making it less ideal for components subject to frequent handling.

  • Density & Fraying: Lower density means a higher likelihood of fraying on the edges, especially after repeated use.

  • Humidity Sensitivity: Low-quality cardboard is more susceptible to humidity, increasing the risk of warping.

Types of Wood

MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard)

  • Durability: MDF is a durable and cost-effective option for wooden components. Its density allows for precise laser cutting, making it suitable for intricate designs.

  • Weakness: The maximum laser cutting thickness is only 6mm and MDF are susceptible to water damage and may swell in humid conditions.

Beech Wood

  • Durability: Beech is a dense, hardwood option that’s extremely durable and resistant to wear. It works well for creating high-end, premium-feel game pieces like Jenga.

  • Laser Cutting: Beech needs to be sanded and sawed because there are impossible to laser cut due to its hardness and the maximum laser cutting thickness is 6mm, but it holds intricate shapes well.

Pine Wood

  • Durability: Pine is a softwood and more affordable than beech, making it a common choice for game components where cost is a factor.

  • Laser Cutting: Its softness makes it easy to cut, but it’s also more prone to denting and scratching.

Plywood

  • Durability: Lightweight and sturdy, plywood is a popular choice for tokens and tiles that needs a little thickness. It is easily laser cut up to 10mm into various shapes and provides good durability at a lower cost than solid hardwoods.

  • Weaknesses: Like MDF, plywood is vulnerable to moisture and may warp over time if not treated.

Types of Plastic

Plastic is one of the most versatile materials used in board games due to its wide range of applications, durability, and cost-efficiency. Different types of plastic offer varying levels of strength, flexibility, and aesthetics, making them ideal for specific game components.

ABS Plastic (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)

  • Strengths: ABS plastic is known for its high impact resistance, durability, and rigidity, making it a popular choice for high-quality game components like miniatures and player tokens. It holds intricate details well and can withstand significant wear without deforming.

  • Weaknesses: ABS is typically more expensive than other plastics due to its superior strength and molding capabilities. Additionally, it’s less eco-friendly compared to recyclable plastics like polypropylene (PP).

PVC Plastic (Polyvinyl Chloride)

  • Strengths: PVC is flexible, lightweight, and cost-effective, making it an ideal material for mass-produced game components. It’s commonly used in card sleeves, mats, and other flexible parts. PVC’s adaptability allows it to be both rigid and soft, depending on the formulation.

  • Weaknesses: Over time, PVC components can become brittle, especially under environmental stress such as sunlight or high temperatures. It may also feel less premium than more rigid plastics like ABS.

Polypropylene (PP) Plastic

  • Strengths: Polypropylene is highly resistant to chemical damage, impact, and moisture. It’s often used for game trays, storage inserts, and durable custom tokens. PP is also recyclable, which makes it a more environmentally friendly option compared to PVC or ABS.

  • Weaknesses: While durable, PP plastic is slightly less rigid than ABS, making it unsuitable for highly detailed or load-bearing components like miniatures.

Resin

  • Strengths: Resin is extremely durable and hard, and easily molded for the use of 3D printers, making it perfect for small quantity print runs of miniatures.   

  • Weaknesses: It’s so rigid and stiff, it can become brittle and break easily upon impact if the area of the impact is less than 1.2mm thick.

Types of Fabric

Fabric materials bring a tactile softness to board games, often used for mats, game boards, and storage solutions like bags. These materials offer flexibility, durability, and a premium feel but vary in terms of resistance to wear and tear.

Neoprene

  • Strengths: Neoprene is a soft, durable material that offers a cushioned, premium feel for gaming mats. Its water- and stain-resistant properties make it ideal for play surfaces, providing protection against spills and damage. Neoprene also maintains its form and cushioning over time.

  • Weaknesses: Neoprene tends to be bulkier and more expensive than other materials, making it less convenient for storage and transportation compared to foldable alternatives like paper or cardboard mats.

Cotton Canvas

  • Strengths: A natural, flexible fabric, cotton canvas is both strong and versatile, offering durability in the form of drawstring bags or rollable game boards. Its breathability, strength and cheaper price as compared to neoprene make it a go-to material for storage solutions.

  • Weaknesses: Cotton canvas is more susceptible to stains and moisture damage than synthetic materials like neoprene, which can reduce its lifespan if not properly maintained.

Types of Metal

Metal components add a sense of luxury and weight to board games, often used in deluxe editions or for highly specialized pieces. Metal is a durable and visually striking material that can enhance the tactile experience of a game.

Zinc Alloy

  • Strengths: Zinc alloy provides a heavy, durable feel, perfect for creating coins, tokens, and special game pieces that elevate the overall game experience. Its ability to take on intricate details and different finishes makes it versatile and appealing.

  • Weaknesses: Due to its weight and cost, zinc alloy is typically reserved for deluxe editions or games with higher budgets. It may not be practical for all game creators.

Steel

  • Strengths: Steel is highly durable and corrosion-resistant, making it ideal for dice, tokens, and high-durability components. It’s stronger and heavier than zinc alloy and gives off a professional, industrial look.

  • Weaknesses: Steel’s weight and higher cost compared to plastic or wood can make it an expensive choice for large-scale production.

Other Key Materials in Board Games

Glass

  • Strengths: Glass is used in board games for gems, marbles, and luxury tokens. Its smooth, polished surface and natural weight provide a sleek, high-quality aesthetic that can elevate the game’s tactile experience.

  • Weaknesses: While beautiful, glass is also fragile and can be prone to breaking or chipping, especially if used frequently in gameplay. It’s also more expensive than synthetic materials.

Acrylic

  • Strengths: Acrylic is a clear, strong material that’s often used for transparent overlays, markers, or premium tokens. It’s resistant to impact and scratches, providing a modern, polished look to game components.

  • Weaknesses: Acrylic can scratch more easily than some other materials and is more expensive than cardboard or plastic. It can also be less durable if subjected to frequent handling over time. Despite this, it offers a high-end aesthetic that can enhance the overall presentation of a game.

Importance of Material Selection in Game Design

Choosing the right material is more than just about cost. Durability, appearance, and tactile experience are vital considerations for every game creator.

At Hero Time, we provide sample kits containing a range of these materials from papers and cardboards to wood and plastics. These kits allow game creators to experience firsthand the feel and quality of different materials before making final production decisions. Request your sample kit today and start creating a game that players will love and that will stand the test of time.

Understanding the trade-offs between high-quality and low-quality materials allows you to make informed decisions for each component of your game, ensuring both playability and longevity.

#6 Manufacturing a Board Game

How Are Board Games Made? Guide for Game Creators

Posted on by Hero Time Limited

Ever wondered how board games go from an idea to a finished product on your table? Whether you’re dreaming of designing the next Exploding Kittens or just curious about the process, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a quick rundown of how board games are made step by step.

Step 1: Dream It – Game Design

Every board game starts with a great idea! What’s your theme? How will players interact? At this stage, you define the rules, components, and overall gameplay.

  • Game Design: This involves refining gameplay mechanics, creating engaging player interactions, and balancing the difficulty with player personas.

  • Component Design: Think about what elements your game needs: cards, boards, dice, miniatures, and more.

Tip for beginners: Keep it simple to start! Focus on core mechanics and essential components to avoid overwhelming yourself early on. Efficiency with components benefits both you and the players by improving gameplay while controlling costs.

Step 2: Bring It to Life – Artwork & Graphics

Next, it’s time to design the visual elements, from character illustrations to layout for printing. Your game needs to look as good as it plays!

  • Hiring an Artist: Many game creators hire professional artists to bring their vision to life. It’s crucial to have a clear vision board that includes core assets such as characters, landscapes, and the overall theme and feel. This gives your artist a reference to ensure the artwork aligns with your game’s direction.

  • Graphic Design for Print: Proper file preparation is key when it comes to board game artwork. You’ll need to consider margins, resolution, and how each component fits on the sheet for printing.

Tips for beginners: Make sure your artist or designer is familiar with the specific requirements for board game artwork to avoid the common mistakes for game artwork.

Step 3: Test It – Prototyping & Playtesting

Before investing in full production, ensure your game works through prototyping and playtesting. This helps refine mechanics and catch potential issues.

  • Home Prototype: This is your first rough version, used to test gameplay before investing in artwork and production. It’s created at home to make sure the game works as intended.

  • Physical Prototype for Review: Once you’re confident in your game’s mechanics, you can create a professionally made prototype. This version is used for professional playtesting, marketing, or as a final check before mass production.

  • Playtesting: Gather feedback from different players and use it to refine your game.

Tip for beginners: Start with a low-cost prototype so you can quickly make changes based on playtesting feedback before moving into full production.

Step 4: Prep for Production – Files & Components

Time to prep for manufacturing! Once your design is finalised, you’ll need to prepare your files for printing.

  • Print Layout: Organize your components for optimal use of materials. Ensure all components (cards, boards, etc.) are in the correct size and format for production.

  • Component Specifications: Finalize the materials and dimensions for every piece—cards, boards, miniatures, etc.

Tip for beginners: Communicate with your manufacturer early about their file format and size requirements. Proper preparation prevents costly revisions later on.

Step 5: Manufacture – Printing & Production

This is where the magic happens, it’s time to move into production. Here’s a brief look at how major components are made:

  • Cards: Printed using high-quality paper or card stock, then coated for durability.

  • Boards: Printed on thicker cardboard and laminated for longevity.

  • Miniatures: Either 3D printed or made through injection molding, depending on your budget and design.

Tip for beginners: Stick to standard sizes and materials to keep costs down in small print runs. Custom options are available but can drive up the price significantly, especially for small orders.

Step 6: Box It Up – Assembly & Packaging

Once all components are printed and cut, they need to be assembled into a finished product.

  • Box Design: Your box is more than just packaging; it’s the face of your game. You’ll want a durable, attractive design.

  • Shrink Wrapping: Finished games are typically shrink-wrapped to protect them during shipping.

Tip for beginners: Packaging matters! Invest in quality packaging to not only protect your game but also make it appealing to buyers and backers.

Step 7: Ship It – Shipping Logistics

Once your game is assembled and packaged, it’s time to arrange shipping to your chosen warehouse or distribution center.

  • Shipping: This involves getting your game from the manufacturer to a warehouse, typically in your target region. Depending on your chosen fulfillment model, this could mean shipping internationally.

  • Customs and Regulations: For international shipping, be sure to understand customs regulations and taxes in your destination country.

Tip for beginners: Shipping logistics can be complicated, especially when dealing with international orders. Make sure to understand incoterms and customs regulations.

Step 8: Fulfill It – Delivery to Customers

After your game reaches a warehouse, the next step is fulfillment which translates to, getting the game into the hands of your customers.

  • Fulfillment Centers: Most creators work with a fulfillment center, which handles processing and shipping orders to individual customers. Fulfillment centers take care of picking, packing, and sending out your games.

  • Global Fulfillment: If your game has international backers or customers, be sure to select a fulfillment partner with global shipping capabilities to avoid delays.

Tip for beginners: Choose a fulfillment partner early in the process to streamline logistics and ensure timely delivery to your customers. Partnering with an established fulfillment company can help avoid shipping issues, especially for larger campaigns or international orders.

Conclusion

The board game manufacturing process might seem complex, but it’s an adventure when you breaking it down step by step, you can navigate it smoother with confidence. Whether you’re creating your first game or scaling up for a larger production, understanding the process will help you make informed decisions every step of the way. Ready to take the next step in your journey?

If you’re curious about the costs involved, check out our next article: “How Much Does It Cost to Make a Board Game?“ where we break down the various expenses and help you budget for your project effectively.

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