How We Rate

The ELO Rating System

Every show on TheAttReviews is ranked using an ELO rating system — the same algorithm originally developed for chess rankings. In chess, when a lower-ranked player beats a higher-ranked one, the upset shifts more points than a predictable outcome. We apply exactly the same logic to TV shows.

When we compare two shows head-to-head, the winner gains ELO points and the loser drops. A lesser-known show beating a highly rated one will climb faster than if it beats another low-ranked show. Over hundreds of comparisons the rankings stabilise into a reliable ordering that reflects my preferences across the comparisons so far.

The result is a living leaderboard. Every time a new show is compared in the duelling tool, the rankings can shift. Publishing or editing a review does not itself change a score. This means our ratings table is never static — it evolves as our viewing does.

Why ELO Instead of a Simple Score?

A traditional 1–10 scale has a fundamental problem: score inflation. Everything “good” clusters around 7–8, and the numbers stop meaning much. ELO solves this by forcing relative comparisons. A higher score means a show has performed better in my comparisons, not that its artistic quality has been measured objectively. The result depends on my choices and the matchups so far.

TV pages display the raw ELO score and the current rank within the eligible TV list. They do not convert ELO into a ten-point or star rating. Movies and books use separate personal scores out of ten; they do not take part in TV duels.

Our Reviewing Process

The ranked list is a curated selection of shows I have watched, including some I am still watching. Not every catalogue entry belongs in ELO: planned viewing, documentaries and other shows can remain in the watchlist without competing in the rankings.

A review states the seasons or version it covers when that affects the recommendation. Later releases do not automatically become part of an older review. The criticism draws on the writing, characters, pacing and whatever else matters to that particular show; my current viewing progress is recorded separately on the watchlist.

Transparency

The full rankings are public on our ratings page. Every show’s ELO score and rank are visible. When rankings change, they change for everyone at the same time. There are no hidden tiers, no sponsored placements, and no pay-to-rank.

If you have questions about a specific rating or want to suggest a show for review, reach out via our contact page or social channels.