HayManMarc
Member
Wait a minute... Didn't I read somewhere that anyone using GameMaker could partake in the jam (whether they're a hard-core, professional game developer or a 2-month newbie or a spare-time hobbyist) and that the theme was optional?
I always considered the GMC Jam to be more about fun and community, giving and getting feedback, resulting in growth as a programmer and designer. Most importantly, it was about having a good time programming and designing with GameMaker. If the Jam becomes nothing but a set of overly strict rules dictated by dour demeanors, you might as well go get a job rather than join the jam. At least you'd be getting paid for your misery.
Rating a game lower for not following the theme is one thing (and perfectly fine, it's what I do), but scolding the entire group like a father feeling shame over his slightly absent-minded children is quite another, and quite frankly, I find it a bit concerning.
I always considered the GMC Jam to be more about fun and community, giving and getting feedback, resulting in growth as a programmer and designer. Most importantly, it was about having a good time programming and designing with GameMaker. If the Jam becomes nothing but a set of overly strict rules dictated by dour demeanors, you might as well go get a job rather than join the jam. At least you'd be getting paid for your misery.
Rating a game lower for not following the theme is one thing (and perfectly fine, it's what I do), but scolding the entire group like a father feeling shame over his slightly absent-minded children is quite another, and quite frankly, I find it a bit concerning.