Hello,
In my view, participation is more important than winning. We learn new things and develop various skills after taking up challenge.
Ya, I totally agree. Or as it has been said "the journey is the destination" or "the process is more important than the product". Of course, it is also satisfying to reach the milestone of finishing and submitting a project before the deadline as this is its own accomplishment in and of itself. So all around these are all good experiences and pursuits, each with their own reward. I agree, it's not about winning the gamejam but it's all about the participation in the gamejam. I look forward to reviewing and voting the entries; I always much enjoy seeing what others have created too.