So I'll just make a whole new comment for this in case someone else sees it, and and it helps them give you more valuable feedback (for any potential readers, I have a comment down below you can reference for the rest of the conversation):
I played both versions and my final verdict is that I like the game jam system more and not the updated one, BUT, that's because I took more care and attention with your game this time around. I saw the intentionality and design in your game this session, and I don't think I was ready to see it before when I played it the first time because the game was kind of punishing and I simply didn't give it enough of a chance. That's on me, and I will tell you I went back and bumped up your Gameplay score sizably because I think you make good, intentional choices that show strong game design skills. However, the game is also hard and has a steep learning curve at first, which can turn people off. That's why I said earlier it might be a good idea to revisit some of the obstacles you designed (all of which are GOOD, I must reiterate) and make them less punishing for a short game session, like say a game jam. The part where you have several sloped islands to jump on was the first major road block for me and it stayed a major road block every time I fell back down (watermelon 21, for reference). I would personally tone that one down a little and save it for a little later in the level. Maybe someone else would feel differently and had no problem with it, though. Take this part with a fistful salt. I found some shortcuts that made it easier to get back to where I was, but it still felt like it a bit punishing overall.
Ultimately, I'm glad the game jam version encourages one to slow down and be methodical about the next move. Once I realized that, I did do a lot better with the game. The updated version was easier for me to navigate, admittedly, but I think it's because it makes it more similar to platformers I'm already familiar with. I do not want to ask you to box yourself into that system, and instead I encourage you to go back to this and think about how you can make it even more "you" because I really liked that aspect of your game once I got to know it better. The game has a stronger identity that I gave it credit for and tells me you have a lot of potential as a developer.
Anyway, I'm glad I revisited this. Actually one of my favorite entries now. If you're a player reading this, give the game a fair shake and you won't be disappointed.