How about getting him an effects processor... or some pedals... or maybe even a bunch of little things like an instruction video, picks, strap, strings, etc... etc.... There are endless ways that a guitar player can spend 200 dollars.... Here are some:
DigiTech makes a wide range of products from entry level to professional level... You can get a beginner model with an expression pedal as low as 50 dollars for the RP-80..... you can spend about a 100 dollars on an rp-200..... or you can get something that will really allow him to have some fun for anywhere from 150-200 in the GNX2 model.... Here is a link to an ebay auction for one that is used....
http://cgi.ebay.com/Digitech-GNX-2-Fully-working-order-Nice-and-clean_W0QQitemZ330060455259QQihZ014QQcategoryZ41419QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
I use to have that exact processor... it allows you to really play around with effects and such and it's great for beginners because it's not hard to operate.... I think he would enjoy that just as much as a new guitar... It will open up a lot more avenues for tones and effects than just a new guitar... When you're at a beginner stage it's important to look at the "bang for your buck" motto... and Digitech offers some of the best "bfyb" out there... bar-none. So I suggest checking those out! If you can get one used for a cheap amount then you can even spend some of the extra cash on some picks... and if you get him an effects processor... you'll need an extra cord! Overall i think it's the best option... but it's up to you!!!!