I like the idea of keeping with the user-controlled-content idea. Enforce the first three criteria, and then put the mod/game in a 'probationary' list. All the users of Desura can then see this list, and know the mod/game -might- go in later. Those willing to give the various 'probationaries' a try, can and then -they- can rate it in the broader 'gray area' value. After the probationary time is up, a general sense of the mod/game's value to the actual audience should be fairly visible, and a final decision can be made at that point.
This also gives the developer(s) a lot of user-generated feedback that can help them either improve their work for their later attempt if it's not good enough, or focus their attention on their next-big-thing.
*edit* Having an option for developers to opt out of this 'open beta' style probation, could be possible too. As long as they understand that the value judgements will be made by a smaller, possibly stricter audience (ie: Desura staff).
TheGreyOne
Geoffrey joined
Game programmer, Indy developer, and occasionally an all-around nice-guy.