head to head
vs
StarboundvsTerraria
Starbound leans Optimization (Pure Optimization); Terraria leans Optimization (Pure Optimization).
StarboundTerraria
Axis by axis
Execution3 vs 4
Terraria leans harder on execution: Boss fights require dodging and aim under pressure.
Reads0 vs 0
Even - both lean on reads about the same.
Variance4 vs 3
Starbound leans harder on variance: Procedural planets and loot keep early exploration unknown
Optimization7 vs 8
Terraria leans harder on optimization: Gear progression and arena prep solve every boss.
Two games can score the same on an axis and still test it in very different ways - read each rationale, not just the number.