I totally agree with you George, there is no magic wand to make good game. For 15 years, I've changed a few game engines and i must to say that (with the exception of World Editor) for my current project Acknex is the simply perfect. Before someone decides to go with creating a game, he needs to see what features is needs for this kind of game. I am very sure that 99% of indie developers can achieve their goals with GameStudio. A good example are the guys from Turkey who have made some hight quality games with Acknex, and now working on a new project. The bigger problem is the slow engine developement in last two years, and if this continues, we just need someone to turn off the light.

About contest - damn, it will be a difficult decision. Like Sivan say, all the 3 worth a pro. Hmm perhaps Ackmania is the best, but this time i think i will vote for a one of the lone wolves . Who will it be, i do not know yet.