head to head
vs
NoitavsThe First Descendant
Noita leans Optimization (Practiced Mastery); The First Descendant leans Optimization (Practiced Mastery).
NoitaThe First Descendant
Axis by axis
Execution7 vs 6
Noita leans harder on execution: Real-time platforming and aim under physical chaos.
Reads0 vs 1
The First Descendant leans harder on reads: PvE co-op throughout with no meaningful adaptive opponent
Variance7 vs 6
Noita leans harder on variance: Procedural world and wand drops dominate runs.
Optimization8 vs 8
Even - both lean on optimization about the same.
Two games can score the same on an axis and still test it in very different ways - read each rationale, not just the number.