Scratch 1.x (1.4) is nice if you already have some books bought or borrowed. Very quick to get something running and everything is visual. (Avoid any games that need clone, or duplicate the functions.)

Two approaches: either build as many games as you can, or create a couple physics-based games that can be dissected and modified for insight on mechanics.

Penguin Jumper and Tower Smash highlight Scratch's ability to simulate game physics. They are from Code Your Own Games! Twenty Games to Create with Scratch (2016) by Max Wainewright.

Likely not much can be done on a weekend versus months; regardless of the technology, have at least one "Wow, amazing" thing from community or Steam to show what's possible.