head to head
vs
Stardew ValleyvsUltima
Stardew Valley leans Optimization (Pure Optimization); Ultima leans Optimization (Pure Optimization).
Stardew ValleyUltima
Axis by axis
Execution1 vs 1
Even - both lean on execution about the same.
Reads0 vs 0
Even - both lean on reads about the same.
Variance3 vs 4
Ultima leans harder on variance: The world's secrets are unknown until mapped by hand
Optimization8 vs 7
Stardew Valley leans harder on optimization: Routing seasons, profit loops, and bundles dominates
Two games can score the same on an axis and still test it in very different ways - read each rationale, not just the number.