My Next Gen Rating System
Mentally, I rate Next Gen episodes based on the quantity and quality of the Data content.
Tier 1/One Star Rating: Data exists in the episode solely to spout some technobabble and possibly to run a PowerPoint slide on the Problem of the Week in the Observation Lounge. He’s a pretty face at the Ops Station, but not much else. Episodes in this tier include: Too Short a Season, Who Watches the Watchers, Lessons, and Dark Page.
Tier 2/Two Star Rating: Data is very much a background character, but he gets One Good Quality Scene of either being just darn adorable or talking about some aspect of humanity with a crewmate. Episodes in this tier include: The Last Outpost, The Bonding, Relics, and Rightful Heir.
Tier 3/Three Star Rating: The main plot of the episode is definitely focused on another character, but Data has a quality subplot and/or he’s an integral part of solving the Problem of the Week. Episodes in this tier include: Force of Nature, Starship Mine, The Outrageous Okona, and Cause and Effect.
Tier 4/Four Star Rating: It may technically be an ensemble episode, but Data is definitely at the center of whatever is happening. There are numerous scenes of Adorableness, Quality Brent Spiner Acting, and/or Philosophical Discussions starring Data. Episodes in this tier include: Time’s Arrow, Clues, Masks, and Descent.
Tier 5: Five Star Rating: This is it! Our boy is front and center and shining for every moment of it. Lean back and enjoy all the Data feels. Episodes in this tier include: The Offspring, Brothers, Hero Worship, and Inheritance.
