This episodes introduces the notorious Ferengi -- symbols of the evils of unregulated capitalism. I remember almost nothing about this episode except for the energy whips used by the wily little villains. This is doubtless because they were shown repeatedly in the trailers. There is a good reason for this: the weapons were visually interesting. The entire battle between the away team and the Ferengi was fun to watch and a refreshing change of pace for this generally placidly toned series.

Initially, the Ferengi appear to be imposing villains indeed. In very short order, they have the Enterprise trapped, immobile, and running out of energy. Not even Picard's patented one-two punch of run away and surrender can extricate them from this bind. Eventually, of course, the Enterprise uses its resources to discover that there is a third, more powerful, force at play.

It seemed as if the unfunny tedious bits concerning Data and his inability to solve the Chinese finger trap would lead our crew to the solution to the problem. Instead, the key lies in some throwaway lines quoting Sun Tzu. Our heroes and their success depends on Riker showing himself to be more worthy than the Ferengi. Naturally the Tkon (which I thought of as being vaguely derivative of the Metrons in the TOS episode Arena) are much more impressed with Riker's forthrightness and courage than with the little guys and their transparent treachery. Yay! My estimation of Riker continues to grow.

In spite of the occasional bits of snark, I feel this episode is better than its reputation. The danger to the ship was palpable and the conversation between Riker and the Tkon felt reassuring. There are more indications that the federation treats females as equals. This, as in Code of Honor, is done through contrasting the federation with the villains du jour.

And, yeah, Data continues to be annoying. Even the implacable Picard snaps at him in this episode. Wesley's role, thankfully, is minimal in this outing.