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
A stealth puzzle game where meticulously planning the perfect assassination route is the whole point.

Optimization · Pure Optimization
An open-world JRPG where build construction and art rotation planning win battles.
Hitman leans Optimization (Pure Optimization); Xenoblade Chronicles 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.
Hitman
minimal twitch skill, stealth-focused
Xenoblade Chronicles
Positioning during auto-attack combat needs minimal dexterity
Same score on reads - which means the number cannot separate them. The difference is in what each one asks of you.
Hitman
guard patrols scripted, no adaptation
Xenoblade Chronicles
Enemy AI runs fixed aggro and art rotations
Same score on variance - which means the number cannot separate them. The difference is in what each one asks of you.
Hitman
some random guard behavior variance
Xenoblade Chronicles
Drop rates and unexplored zones add mild uncertainty
Same score on optimization - which means the number cannot separate them. The difference is in what each one asks of you.
Hitman
planning routes and disguises is fully solvable
Xenoblade Chronicles
Art rotations, gem crafting and party builds decide fights
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.