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 dense layered puzzle game demanding methodical inventory and dialogue optimization across four islands.

Optimization · Pure Optimization
A peaceful survival game about optimizing machines to terraform a dead planet.
Monkey Island 2: LeChuck's Revenge leans Optimization (Pure Optimization); The Planet Crafter 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.
Monkey Island 2: LeChuck's Revenge
Interface is point-and-click; no timing or precision required
The Planet Crafter
Walking and placing machines, no dexterity test
Same score on reads - which means the number cannot separate them. The difference is in what each one asks of you.
Monkey Island 2: LeChuck's Revenge
All puzzles are scripted; no opponent models the player
The Planet Crafter
A dead planet offers no opposition
Same score on variance - which means the number cannot separate them. The difference is in what each one asks of you.
Monkey Island 2: LeChuck's Revenge
Some item locations are initially hidden but deterministic
The Planet Crafter
Wreck locations unknown until explored, then fixed
Same score on optimization - which means the number cannot separate them. The difference is in what each one asks of you.
Monkey Island 2: LeChuck's Revenge
Multi-step puzzle chains reward systematic item and dialogue mapping
The Planet Crafter
Terraforming-index machine ratios are a solvable progression
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.