head to head
vs
Grim FandangovsRiven
Grim Fandango leans Optimization (Pure Optimization); Riven leans Optimization (Pure Optimization).
Grim FandangoRiven
Axis by axis
Execution1 vs 0
Grim Fandango leans harder on execution: Tank controls are awkward but never a skill test
Reads0 vs 0
Even - both lean on reads about the same.
Variance2 vs 2
Even - both lean on variance about the same.
Optimization8 vs 9
Riven leans harder on optimization: Deciphering the world's logic is one giant solvable puzzle
Two games can score the same on an axis and still test it in very different ways - read each rationale, not just the number.