As well, it’s easy for me to “gift” things on Steam (as well as on iTunes and Amazon), and I feel like it adds value to the actual prize money. $30 isn’t any huge amount of money. But it can be stretched on Steam because they offer games for a relatively cheap cost, especially when they put on sales (Mass Effect for $10!).

What I don’t want is to get into a situation where I am wiring money to people via PayPal, so I use these online services to distribute prizes. It’s easier and safer that way for everyone.

I appreciate the feedback though, and I guess I should investigate more methods for prizes. I like to stick to services people (including myself) are familiar with though, so I’m not sure how far out I will extend. We shall see.

Fred @ msr “you’re complaining about getting something for nothing.”
Just a final note, people are giving you their time. Something needs to drive them.
Hope this feedback helps. Good luck with the competition =)

Yeah, but most of the people who are going to enter a game making competition will be making games anyways. Why not make your game match the theme, and have a chance at winning a bit of money?

While I don’t agree with his comment, I personally would prefer a direct cash prize as opposed to Steam. Using Steam as a prize limits your entrants, as not everyone has Steam, and so people may not ‘see the point’ of entering.

I also think you chose a difficult theme — not necessarily a bad one, just a complex one. This may discourage people.

Fred @ msr “you’re complaining about getting something for nothing.”
Just a final note, people are giving you their time. Something needs to drive them.

Hope this feedback helps. Good luck with the competition =)

Maybe to YOU the prizes are lame, but to the rest of us, one or more free games is awesome. Clearly your not very appreciative of good-will.

On a different note; good luck to Jack.

What’s lame about getting a free game or two? What would you consider a non-lame prize?

At the end of the comp, many people will have either completed or well-developed, fun games that they have made themselves, and three of those people will have one or two free games from Steam as well. The prizes offered aren’t extreme by any stretch, but you’re complaining about getting something for nothing.