I just want to clarify something, that these contests aren't to write "WTF" code, code that is just plain "oh my god why the hell did you write that" but it's more to demonstrate interesting and perverse design and implementations using your noggin.
What are you actually judging on, creativity, but that's a broad broad subject, obsfucated code is really creative but as you state, that's not going to get you a winning entry.
Obfuscated Code is creative in a Jackson Pollock sort of way. We're looking for more creativity in implementing a simple requirement using a complex design / process. Hence, "Creative Code", not "Ugly Code". As mentioned in the announcing article, obfuscated code will very most certainly be passed over.
If we can't read it, we can't understand it. If we can't understand it, we can't judge it.
So it's not how to write (wtf's) the worst or stupidest code as certain people may feel is the point.
it's always more fun to see how one can mess up even the simplest task.
To the judges,
am I right?To other users,
I am right!