The best part about students making their own video games is that they are constantly applying and reapplying their evolving knowledge of video games and the inner workings of them.  In addition, I would find a way to conduct a video game showcase where people from the community could come in, learn about what students have learned about video games, and try to beat the games that students have created.  Maybe, then, people could see that video games are more than just fun and aren't just a "waste of time."