Oh man I'm psyched about this. I love game jams, and GitHub's event will surely draw people new to the concept. The more the merrier!
I'm honestly a little turned off by the prize though. I'd rather there be no prize at all but instead some internet recognition maybe (like Ludum Dare). Perhaps they'll introduce some alternative prizes later on?
I understand where you're coming from, but my point wasn't "I don't want an iPad", but rather that I feel like these prizes specifically cheapen the feel of the jam, especially considering how big github is. I don't know, I guess I've never participated in a game jam with a prize. But seeing as Ludum Dare pulled >1000 participators last jam, it doesn't seem like game developers need too much of a monetary incentive to jam.
In any case, I'm happy that this is happening; prize or no prize :)
I'm honestly a little turned off by the prize though. I'd rather there be no prize at all but instead some internet recognition maybe (like Ludum Dare). Perhaps they'll introduce some alternative prizes later on?