Ask HN: Java program ideas for absolute beginners?

I have a cousin and a close friend who are just starting as Computer Science majors. Neither of them has any prior programming experience, but they are familiar with tech and enjoy playing video games.

Their university courses are starting them off with Java. I'm worried they'll become disinterested in making console programs that have no real world applicability. I remember being in that position, googling "what can I actually build with Java" countless times.

Any ideas for simple projects that might really show off what you can build that's relevant/interesting? My first thought was a text-based RPG.