head to head
vs
Fallout 2vsPath of Exile
Fallout 2 leans Optimization (Pure Optimization); Path of Exile leans Optimization (Pure Optimization).
Fallout 2Path of Exile
Axis by axis
Execution2 vs 3
Path of Exile leans harder on execution: Some dodge and reflex play, but build carries fights.
Reads1 vs 0
Fallout 2 leans harder on reads: All tribal and Enclave enemies run fixed scripted combat routines
Variance5 vs 6
Path of Exile leans harder on variance: Loot, map mods, and crafting outcomes are heavily random.
Optimization9 vs 10
Path of Exile leans harder on optimization: Passive tree, crafting, and economy form near-infinite theorycraft.
Two games can score the same on an axis and still test it in very different ways - read each rationale, not just the number.