May I recommend making a simple game? Developing small games is a lot of fun, and you have complete control over the complexity you'd like to delve into, as well as the scope.
I've been making games with varying degrees of seriousness. I even released a full solo game last year, which was a wild ride. I'm lucky enough to have a job I'm satisfied with, but even so, creating games has never failed to introduce super interesting challenges, it's just a great creative outlet for code and art alike.
I think Godot (Python-like with C# support) is in a very interesting place right now, and it's easy to get into and start making some prototypes. If you want something more involved, try Monogame (C#). There are always Unreal (C++) and Unity (which IMO is getting harder and harder to recommend due to their business model and decisions as of late).
Plus, game developers have some of the best online communities on virtually any platform you can think of. You can always find someone to consult or even join a project, from modding to rev-share game development.
I've been making games with varying degrees of seriousness. I even released a full solo game last year, which was a wild ride. I'm lucky enough to have a job I'm satisfied with, but even so, creating games has never failed to introduce super interesting challenges, it's just a great creative outlet for code and art alike.
I think Godot (Python-like with C# support) is in a very interesting place right now, and it's easy to get into and start making some prototypes. If you want something more involved, try Monogame (C#). There are always Unreal (C++) and Unity (which IMO is getting harder and harder to recommend due to their business model and decisions as of late).
Plus, game developers have some of the best online communities on virtually any platform you can think of. You can always find someone to consult or even join a project, from modding to rev-share game development.