I agree as well. I'm trying to figure out what this format adds to the startup vetting process. It's almost like a weird social media version of Shark Tank with a behind-closed-doors pre-selection process. I feel like what YCF really needs a competition for is the best idea for finding and vetting YCF participants.
I know that some people's (mine this year) application videos didn't register any viewings so I guess it is a way to guarantee your video is viewed.
That said, as a human, it is okay to have some fun with your job. I imagine these experiments might be both a way to do something differently as well as possibly be a learning experience.
Also, I imagine some of them might be pitched by complete strangers as they buy their coffee or do their grocery shopping. So this might be a more controlled version of that.
