head to head
Neither is harder. They score identically on all four axes, so the difference between them is in kind, not degree.

Optimization · Pure Optimization
An RPG where programming automated gambit systems and optimizing builds is the true skill test.

Optimization · Pure Optimization
Stylish JRPG where phantom thieves steal hearts on a tightly optimized school calendar.
Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age leans Optimization (Pure Optimization); Persona 5 leans Optimization (Pure Optimization).
Same score on execution - which means the number cannot separate them. The difference is in what each one asks of you.
Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age
no real-time physical skill, gambit-automated
Persona 5
Stylish menus, not reflexes
Same score on reads - which means the number cannot separate them. The difference is in what each one asks of you.
Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age
no adaptive opponents, scripted encounters
Persona 5
Palace enemies use fixed weaknesses
Same score on variance - which means the number cannot separate them. The difference is in what each one asks of you.
Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age
loot and encounter randomness present
Persona 5
Fusion alerts and negotiation rolls
Same score on optimization - which means the number cannot separate them. The difference is in what each one asks of you.
Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age
gambit and job builds are near-solvable
Persona 5
Confidant calendar routing and baton-pass weakness chains
A matching score does not mean a matching test. Two games can both sit at 10 on execution and demand completely different things of you - which is why the reasoning above matters more than the number beside it.