I'm taking a game programming class this semester. It involves making our own game using C++ and the Allegro library. My degree doesn't focus on game programming so this class is more about showing our programming skill and maybe a little creativity more than it is about creating a great game. I've taken the class when it was first created, but I did not put the time into the class that it deserved, and I picked a game idea that was going to be way too much work for a normal person to do in a single semester. Even though I lack experience, my ability to think through programming problems is far above normal. However, with ADD caused by sleep apnea, I just have days where I can't think about programming. This doesn't usually start to slow me down until about half way through a semester though.
So a question I have is what game types would you suggest for this class? If its overly complex I fear I might not complete the game, but it can not be overly simple (like pong). One idea I'm thinking about is a 2D platformer. It would start with just basic platforming. Then I would add in enemies. Then possibly the ability to shoot/jump on them. Then maybe even powerups depending on how much time I have.
Whatever type of game I make, it doesn't have to be a complete game with multiple levels. It just needs to be functional, and maybe have a main menu (I don't remember).