Well, what you're asking is a value judgement. If it's "worth it" is entirely dependent on where you find worth. The question also doesn't specify if it's worth it for WHO, which is important.

If you're asking if it's "worth it" for me? Of course. I keep doing it after all. Putting effort into making, and trying to finish video games (some of which I actually have ok lol!)

But I have a hunch what you're actually asking is if it's worth it for you to get into it, or keep going.

I can't answer for you what to do with your life, but I can tell you my own feelings.

I feel driven to create, whether it be art, music, storytelling, or games (which I believe to be a combination of all 3 plus gameplay). And, being driven to create, I do it. I love it, and find value in it. If I never made anything, I wouldn't be who I am. I have to make, or at least imagine in one way or another. It's just in my nature.

I just have ideas that I desperately wanna see real, before my own eyes. To bring my imagination into reality, that's the goal of art I think. It's self expression, ultimately.

As far as money goes, I haven't made anything yet, most don't make a lot without focusing on marketability, and even then it can be difficult.

If you're asking about popularity, same thing. I'm fortunate enough to have as many followers as I have, but a lot of it is from art and Game Jolt quests, not game dev interest (though I have some of that as well).

But you see, it was never really about any of that at all. I just like making things, and I want to, so I do. That's about the whole deal right there.

So, if you love to create, don't let anything stop you from doing so. Do what YOU love and find value in. Keep trying things, and keep trying different things, to learn more about yourself, and the world around you, and always keep moving forward, and making the most of what you have.

And ultimately, if you can live a life where you can do things you find immensely meaningful, I think you've won the game.

An incredibly long answer naturally, and not a direct answer of yes or no, but the truth is; what you find truly meaningful to you, which you can afford, is worth it.

I hope you will do exactly that, whatever it may be ^.^

As for me, I'm going to keep making, and experiencing what others have made. It's what I love the most, and I wouldn't give it up for the world!

(ok so obviously I wouldn't kill off the whole world for it but you get the point, hope you found this helpful)