At Hero Time, we know that the little details make a big difference in board games. When it comes to 3D figures, whether they’re miniatures, tokens, or unique game pieces, the material you choose can impact the aesthetics, durability, and overall player experience. Since we specialize in board game manufacturing, we’ve seen firsthand how the right choice of material can elevate a game from good to extraordinary.

 

Understanding Your Game’s Needs

Before diving into materials, it’s essential to consider the role of 3D figures in your board game. Are they just decorative, or do they serve a functional purpose? Will players handle them frequently? Do they need to be highly detailed? Understanding these elements will guide your material selection.

For instance, if your game is strategy-heavy and relies on precise positioning, you’ll want figures that are stable and easy to handle. If the figures are purely thematic, material choices can focus more on aesthetics rather than durability.

 

Common Materials for 3D Figures

The most popular materials for board game figures include plastic, resin, metal, and wood. Each has unique properties that affect weight, texture, and cost.

Plastic – Affordable and Versatile

Plastic is the go-to material for mass-produced board game figures. It’s lightweight, cost-effective, and easy to mold into detailed designs. Injection-molded plastic figures are durable, making them ideal for games that require a lot of handling. We manufacture a variety of plastic figures, ensuring a balance between quality and affordability. However, if your game demands ultra-fine details, you might want to explore resin.

Resin – High Detail, Premium Feel

Resin figures are often used in high-end or collector’s edition board games. They offer exceptional detail and a premium feel, making them perfect for games with intricate characters or fantasy elements. However, resin is more fragile than plastic and tends to be pricier. If your game includes highly detailed figures meant to impress, resin might be the best option.

Metal – Weighty and Luxurious

There’s something satisfying about a board game figure with a bit of weight to it. Metal pieces give a game a premium, high-quality feel. They’re often used in limited editions or deluxe versions of games. However, metal is more expensive and requires special molds, which can increase production time. We’ve worked with publishers who wanted to add a metal token or two as a special touch, and the results were always impressive.

Wood – Classic and Sustainable

Wood is an excellent choice for games with a more traditional or eco-friendly approach. It has a timeless appeal and works well for abstract games. While wooden pieces may not capture fine details like plastic or resin, they have a charm of their own. We ensure all our wooden components are FSC-certified, meaning they’re sustainably sourced and environmentally friendly.

 

Balancing Cost and Quality

One of the biggest concerns when choosing materials is cost. Plastic is usually the most budget-friendly, while resin and metal can increase production expenses significantly. At Hero Time, we work with game creators to find the perfect balance between quality and cost. Our team helps you assess what’s best for your game while staying within your budget.

For indie game designers or those launching a game via Kickstarter, we often recommend plastic for standard editions and resin or metal for deluxe editions. This allows players to choose their preferred version while helping publishers manage production costs.

 

Durability and Longevity

A game’s figures should withstand frequent use. Plastic and metal tend to be the most durable, while resin, though beautiful, can be more fragile. If your game is aimed at families or casual gamers who might not handle the pieces carefully, a sturdier material might be the best choice. We perform rigorous quality control tests to ensure that the figures we produce can endure years of gameplay.

 

Customization and Painting

If your game includes miniatures that players can paint, resin is often the best option due to its fine details. Plastic is also paint-friendly, though it might require priming. Metal pieces can be painted but may need special preparation. We offer painting services and custom finishing options for those who want pre-painted figures straight from the factory.

 

Eco-Friendly Considerations

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in board game manufacturing. Many game designers are looking for environmentally friendly alternatives. We use FSC-certified wood and recycled plastics where possible. If sustainability is a priority for your game, we’re happy to explore the best options to reduce environmental impact while maintaining quality.

 

Bringing Your Game to Life

At Hero Time, we don’t just manufacture board games—we bring ideas to life. Whether you’re looking for standard plastic figures or custom-made resin miniatures, we’re here to guide you through the process. Our experience in working with different materials ensures that you’ll get the best results for your game.

Choosing the right material for your board game figures isn’t just about cost or aesthetics—it’s about how they fit into the overall experience. If you’re ready to start manufacturing, let’s discuss your game’s unique needs. Contact us today, and let’s make your vision a reality!