[Bjartr]

As far as writing an interpreter or compiler are concerned, what you're describing is more like making one for an existing production grade language that's compatible with it's wider ecosystem.

These exercises are more like building a rubber band powered toy car. Useless (but not worthless), fun to build (if building things is something you enjoy), and something you can learn fundamentals of the domain from.

Also, I wish I could take a swing at any of what you mentioned for as little up front investment in money or space as giving these software exercises a shot, it'd be an incredible learning experience and awesome fun!

[throw1234651234]

Well, my previous trolling aside, you can build an internal combustion (or electric!) go-kart type deal on a mid software developer budget. There are plenty of university students doing so for under a couple of thousand USD. You can also experiment with RC planes.

I do realize how relative money is - it's "nothing" to a FAANG dev (though they probably don't have the time), it's potentially years of savings for someone working in the the 2nd / 3rd world.

[Bjartr]

For sure! My current personal enrichment hobby of choice is machining metal. Tons to learn and great fun, but an engineer's salary definitely helps as you say.