head to head
vs
Crusader Kings IIIvsMonster Train
Crusader Kings III leans Optimization (Systems & Chaos); Monster Train leans Optimization (Pure Optimization).
Crusader Kings IIIMonster Train
Axis by axis
Execution0 vs 0
Even - both lean on execution about the same.
Reads2 vs 1
Crusader Kings III leans harder on reads: AI characters follow scripted, not adaptive, agendas.
Variance6 vs 6
Even - both lean on variance about the same.
Optimization8 vs 9
Monster Train leans harder on optimization: Clan synergy and unit stacking solves encounters.
Two games can score the same on an axis and still test it in very different ways - read each rationale, not just the number.