This is another one of those games that handled the scope of the project perfectly imo. The incremental power ups and brief 5 day window to pay back your debt is the perfect length for a short jam like this.
The game also makes great use of the color palette, with clear and very cute graphics. Personally, I love the general look and style of Old Sam's Gold.
With the secondary theme clearly visible, this is a VERY promising entry and one of the best and more complete ones I've played, with a unique hook/playstyle to boot. Well done!