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

Execution · Pure Mechanics
Classic run-and-gun reflexes plus memorised enemy layouts across fixed stages.

Execution · Pure Mechanics
A run-and-gun shooter where memorizing enemy patterns and precise dodging carries survival.
Jackal leans Execution (Pure Mechanics); Metal Slug 4 leans Execution (Pure Mechanics).
Same score on execution - which means the number cannot separate them. The difference is in what each one asks of you.
Jackal
Dodging bullet patterns in a jeep is pure twitch
Metal Slug 4
twitch dodging and shooting precision
Same score on reads - which means the number cannot separate them. The difference is in what each one asks of you.
Jackal
Enemy placements and patterns are entirely scripted
Metal Slug 4
fixed enemy waves, no adaptation
Same score on variance - which means the number cannot separate them. The difference is in what each one asks of you.
Jackal
Almost nothing random once the levels are known
Metal Slug 4
minor drop randomness
Same score on optimization - which means the number cannot separate them. The difference is in what each one asks of you.
Jackal
Memorising layouts and POW routes defines mastery
Metal Slug 4
memorized patterns and routes solvable
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.