head to head
vs
Darkest DungeonvsMonster Train 2
Darkest Dungeon leans Optimization (Systems & Chaos); Monster Train 2 leans Optimization (Systems & Chaos).
Darkest DungeonMonster Train 2
Axis by axis
Execution0 vs 1
Monster Train 2 leans harder on execution: No manual timing or motor demands added in the sequel
Reads0 vs 0
Even - both lean on reads about the same.
Variance7 vs 7
Even - both lean on variance about the same.
Optimization8 vs 9
Monster Train 2 leans harder on optimization: Layered synergy solving across dual-clan builds deepens from the original
Two games can score the same on an axis and still test it in very different ways - read each rationale, not just the number.