After seven seasons, Rick and Morty has solidified its place as one of the most acclaimed animated sitcoms ever. The show's unique mix of high-concept storytelling, absurd humor, and emotionally charged character development is unparalleled, even if fans often endure long waits between seasons. While Rick and Morty typically follows an annual release schedule, Season 8's arrival this year was delayed due to the 2023 Writers Guild strike, which lasted five months.
As we eagerly await the next installment of Rick and Morty, let's dive into IGN's selection of the top 15 episodes. Where do classics like "Pickle Rick" and "Rixty Minutes" rank? Let's find out.
The Top 15 Rick and Morty Episodes
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"The Ricklantis Mixup" (S3E7)
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This Season 3 episode masterfully defies expectations. Initially billed as an adventure to the underwater kingdom of Atlantis, "The Ricklantis Mixup" shifts focus to the Citadel, exploring the lives of various Ricks and Mortys. The episode's surprising conclusion ties up a loose end from a previous season, setting the stage for a significant confrontation in Season 5.
"Solaricks" (S6E1)
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While Season 6 may not be the strongest, it kicks off with a stellar premiere in "Solaricks." Following the dramatic Season 5 finale, Rick and Morty navigate a universe without portals, leading to a humorous misadventure. The episode deepens the rivalry between Rick and Rick Prime and cleverly utilizes the Beth/Space Beth dynamic. Plus, it showcases Jerry's unexpected badassery.
"One Crew Over the Crewcoo’s Morty" (S4E3)
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Heist movies can be overwhelming, but Rick and Morty turns this genre on its head with a hilariously convoluted plot in this Season 4 episode. Introducing Rick's Heist-o-Tron and its nemesis, Rand-o-Tron, the episode builds on its absurd premise brilliantly. It also brings back the beloved Mr. Poopybutthole and delivers the iconic line, "I'm Pickle Rick!!!!"
"The Ricks Must Be Crazy" (S2E6)
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Ever wondered about the power source of Rick's versatile spaceship? This episode delves into the microverse that fuels it, pitting Rick against Zeep Zanflorp (voiced by Stephen Colbert). It explores existential themes while providing a hilarious subplot involving Summer's protection by Rick's ship.
"Rickmurai Jack" (S5E10)
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The Season 5 finale answers the burning question about Evil Morty's motives. Starting with Rick's crow obsession and anime-inspired fight scenes, the episode shifts focus to Evil Morty's plan to escape Rick's influence. It's a clever twist that showcases Rick's self-destructive tendencies.
"Meeseeks and Destroy" (S1E5)
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This episode highlights the potential of supporting characters like Beth and Jerry. While Morty's adventure is memorable, Mr. Meeseeks steals the show, struggling to help Beth and Jerry achieve their goals, with humorous and poignant results.
"Mort Dinner Rick Andre" (S5E1)
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Season 5 introduces Mr. Nimbus, a hilarious parody of Aquaman/Namor. While the feud with Rick plays out in the background, the episode focuses on Morty's encounter with beings from a dimension where time moves faster. It also includes a quirky subplot about Beth and Jerry considering a threesome with the King of Atlantis.
"The Vat of Acid Episode" (S4E8)
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This episode starts with a misleading premise before taking a wild turn. Morty's desire to control their adventures leads to the creation of a save point button, resulting in time-rewinding chaos. It's a perfect blend of sci-fi, humor, and emotional depth.
"Pickle Rick" (S3E3)
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The episode that spawned countless memes, "Pickle Rick" sees Rick transform into a sentient pickle to avoid family therapy. His journey through rat-infested sewers and a showdown with Jaguar showcases the show's wackiest side.
"Rick Potion No. 9" (S1E6)
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This episode marks a turning point for Rick and Morty, blending high-concept sci-fi with dark humor. Morty's attempt to win Jessica's love goes disastrously wrong, forcing Rick and Morty to abandon their dimension, setting a tone that resonates throughout the series.
"The Wedding Squanchers" (S2E10)
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Starting as a lighthearted wedding celebration, this episode quickly escalates into chaos as the Galactic Federation targets Rick. The emotional climax sees Rick sacrificing himself, making it one of the series' most impactful moments.
"Mortynight Run" (S2E2)
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In this episode, Morty's mission to protect an alien named Fart leads to unexpected twists. Highlights include Jermaine Clement's David Bowie-inspired musical number and Morty's traumatic experience with the arcade game Roy: A Life Well Lived. The Jerry subplot at a Jerry-only daycare is a standout.
"Rixty Minutes" (S1E8)
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An episode centered around watching TV becomes one of the series' best. The Smiths explore Rick's interdimensional cable, introducing fan-favorite characters like Ants in My Eyes Johnson. It also delves into the emotional struggles of Jerry and Beth, and Morty's revelation about "Rick Potion No. 9."
"Auto Erotic Assimilation" (S2E3)
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This episode reunites Rick with his ex-lover Unity, a hive mind controlling an entire planet. Their reunion spirals into chaos, culminating in a heart-wrenching near-suicide for Rick, highlighting his deep-seated loneliness and instability.
"Total Rickall" (S2E4)
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"Total Rickall" encapsulates everything that makes Rick and Morty great. An alien parasite invades the Smiths' memories, creating a host of memorable characters. The episode balances humor with emotional depth, culminating in a poignant ending that underscores the show's unique storytelling.
AnswerSee ResultsAnd that's our (likely controversial) pick of the best Rick and Morty episodes of all time! Did your favorite episode make the list? Share your thoughts in the comments.
