head to head
Neither is meaningfully harder - they pose close to the same test. The widest gap is execution, and it is a single point.

Optimization · Pure Optimization
More giant clockwork sandboxes where mapping NPC schedules is the real skill.

Optimization · Pure Optimization
Dark remix of classic Hitman missions built on the same clockwork puzzle stealth.
Hitman 2 (2018) leans Optimization (Pure Optimization); Hitman: Contracts leans Optimization (Pure Optimization).
Hitman: Contracts leans a little harder on execution, though the gap is small.
Hitman 2 (2018)
Minimal dexterity needed with a solid plan
Hitman: Contracts
Precise positioning and timed takedowns
Same score on reads - which means the number cannot separate them. The difference is in what each one asks of you.
Hitman 2 (2018)
Clockwork NPC loops, nothing adapts
Hitman: Contracts
Scripted patrols and fixed reactions only
Same score on variance - which means the number cannot separate them. The difference is in what each one asks of you.
Hitman 2 (2018)
Mission stories hidden until explored
Hitman: Contracts
Unknown layouts and triggers on first attempts
Hitman 2 (2018) leans a little harder on optimization, though the gap is small.
Hitman 2 (2018)
Routing, disguises, and unlocks converge on solved runs
Hitman: Contracts
Route, disguise, and timing solve each mission
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.