You got me beat, I can barely code my way out of a paper bag! (Another skill I want to push this jam). And I am barely competent at drawing, thankfully, digital editing gives me a bit of help.
And yes, scope is gonna be a huge factor. None of us should try to remake Elden Ring 1:1 for this!
I'm still coming up with overall goals but definitely one of them is to go from concept art to 3d model to in-game asset. I think implementing my own code will be a tertiary goal.
And yes, it is important to remember that the theme is optional! I plan on actually trying to brainstorm as much as I can and if I need to scrap then I scrap. I am sure you're familiar about clients changing their minds in your field (but that is an assumption). Even in my own job, the attorney I assist will change the project's scope mid-project (ie, instead of looking at pre-marital standard of living, he now wants to see what monies our client would need to maintain the standard 1:1) so I have to pivot. It is a good practice to remain flexible and keep what I can in a different field (this being the game jam).
Best of luck to you as well, Corvus!