head to head
vs
BraidvsX4: Foundations
Braid leans Optimization (Pure Optimization); X4: Foundations leans Optimization (Pure Optimization).
BraidX4: Foundations
Axis by axis
Execution4 vs 3
Braid leans harder on execution: Precise jumps and time-rewind timing are load-bearing
Reads0 vs 0
Even - both lean on reads about the same.
Variance0 vs 2
X4: Foundations leans harder on variance: Simulated wars create some unpredictability.
Optimization9 vs 10
X4: Foundations leans harder on optimization: Station logistics and empire economics are a pure engine problem.
Two games can score the same on an axis and still test it in very different ways - read each rationale, not just the number.