all games are not created equal

Having just finished both of these games for the first time, I am fresh with ideas. While both games do some revolutionary things for a first-person perspective driven game, Portal is the superior game due to better gameplay, a truly unique and interesting style, and a deep, mysterious story unveiled through nuanced delivery.

Mirror's Edge does score some points for large, beautiful environments, and is certainly the graphically superior game, but the deeper style of the game's overall environment (tyrannical government) can feel a bit tired. Also, the control response in Mirror's Edge can be a bit flaky.

Mirror's Edge shines when considering replayability and multiplayer mode. Each level has multiple paths to explore, things to collect, and time trials, not including available downloadable content, almost all of which you can play with someone else. Portal has a few extra modes available after you finish, but, like most puzzles, figuring out the solution tends to be the end of the line.

Both games offer unique experiences, and should both be played through, but if you have to only get one, Portal's challenge and charm will infinitely satisfy you.

And it's cheaper.