Official Tiering Guide and Evidence Standards

This is the permanent PABC Nexus tiering reference. It is pinned and locked to keep the canonical guide stable. Use #scaling-lab for discussion and #crt-review for proposed revisions.

CORE PRINCIPLES

1. Separate a source statement from the inference drawn from it.
2. Cite primary evidence where possible and provide context rather than isolated phrases.
3. A character being described as infinite, beyond dimensions, transcendent, or fictional relative to another layer does not automatically establish a tier. Explain the relevant ontology and the bridge premises.
4. Evaluate range, speed, durability, resistance, causality, and matchup conditions separately.
5. State versions, equipment, starting distance, knowledge, preparation, win conditions, and any speed equalization.
6. Distinguish a cosmological hierarchy from a demonstrated character capability.
7. Treat R>F claims as a relationship that requires evidence of genuine ontological or narrative asymmetry, not merely a character calling another world fictional.
8. Respectful disagreement is allowed. Unsupported assertions, burden shifting, and personal attacks are not arguments.

This post is maintained by the PABC Nexus staff. To propose changes, create a CRT in #crt-review.