After seven remarkable seasons, Rick and Morty has cemented its place as one of the greatest animated sitcoms ever. The series masterfully blends high-concept storytelling, absurd humor, and deeply emotional character arcs, captivating audiences even as they eagerly await new episodes. Despite shifting to an annual release schedule, fans had to endure a longer wait for Season 8 due to the 2023 Writers Guild strike, which lasted five months.
As we anticipate the next installment, let's dive into IGN's selection of the top 15 Rick and Morty episodes. Where do fan favorites like "Pickle Rick" and "Rixty Minutes" rank? Let's explore.
The Top 15 Rick and Morty Episodes
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"The Ricklantis Mixup" (S3E7)
Image credit: Adult Swim
This Season 3 episode masterfully subverts expectations by shifting focus from Rick and Morty's anticipated journey to Atlantis to a compelling narrative set at the Citadel. It explores the lives of various Ricks and Mortys, showcasing the less glamorous side of their existence. The episode's surprising conclusion ties up a previous loose end brilliantly, setting the stage for a pivotal Season 5 showdown.
"Solaricks" (S6E1)
Image credit: Adult Swim
While Season 6 may not be the strongest, "Solaricks" stands out as one of the show's best premieres. Following the dramatic Season 5 finale, Rick and Morty navigate a universe without portals, leading to a humorous misadventure as displaced beings return home. The episode deepens the rivalry between Rick and Rick Prime and effectively utilizes the Beth/Space Beth dynamic. Plus, Jerry's unexpected badassery adds a delightful twist.
"One Crew Over the Crewcoo’s Morty" (S4E3)
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Heist movies get a hilarious twist in this Season 4 gem. Rick's Heist-o-Tron and its nemesis, Rand-o-Tron, lead to a preposterously convoluted plot that only escalates in absurdity. The episode also brings back fan-favorite Mr. Poopybutthole and delivers the iconic meme line, "I'm Pickle Rick!!!!"
"The Ricks Must Be Crazy" (S2E6)
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This episode delves into the mystery of Rick's spaceship power source, taking viewers on a mind-bending journey through the microverse. As Rick clashes with Zeep Zanflorp, the series reflects on existential futility and the sacrifices behind Rick's interdimensional travels. Meanwhile, a subplot featuring Rick's ship protecting Summer adds a humorous counterpoint.
"Rickmurai Jack" (S5E10)
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The Season 5 finale resolves the mystery surrounding Evil Morty's motives. Opening with a humorous nod to Rick's crow obsession and anime influences, the episode shifts focus to Evil Morty's plan to escape Rick's influence, highlighting Rick's self-destructive tendencies.
"Meeseeks and Destroy" (S1E5)
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This episode showcases the potential of supporting characters, with Beth and Jerry stealing the show. Morty's adventure takes a backseat to the comedic brilliance of Mr. Meeseeks, whose efforts to help Beth and Jerry lead to both poignant and hilarious outcomes.
"Mort Dinner Rick Andre" (S5E1)
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The Season 5 premiere introduces Mr. Nimbus, a hilarious parody of aquatic superheroes. While the feud with Rick plays out in the background, the episode focuses on Morty's encounter with beings from a faster-moving dimension, alongside a quirky subplot involving Beth and Jerry.
"The Vat of Acid Episode" (S4E8)
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Starting with a misleading premise, this episode explores Morty's desire to take control of their adventures, leading to the creation of a time-rewinding save point. The blend of high-concept sci-fi, humor, and emotional twists showcases the series' versatility.
"Pickle Rick" (S3E3)
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A cultural phenomenon, "Pickle Rick" sees Rick transform into a sentient pickle to avoid family therapy, leading to a wild adventure. This episode epitomizes the show's wacky, over-the-top nature.
"Rick Potion No. 9" (S1E6)
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This episode marks a turning point for the series, balancing sci-fi, humor, and nihilism. Morty's attempt to win Jessica's love leads to catastrophic consequences, forcing Rick and Morty to abandon their dimension, a decision with lasting impact.
"The Wedding Squanchers" (S2E10)
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Starting as a celebration, this episode quickly escalates into chaos as the Galactic Federation targets Rick. The emotional climax sees Rick sacrificing himself, leaving the Smith family to adapt to a new life, making it a poignant season finale.
"Mortynight Run" (S2E2)
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In this episode, Morty's mission to save a rogue alien named Fart leads to moral conflicts and emotional turmoil. Highlights include Jermaine Clement's musical number and a memorable Jerry subplot at a Jerry daycare.
"Rixty Minutes" (S1E8)
Image credit: Adult Swim
An episode centered around watching TV becomes a showcase of the show's creativity. Rick's interdimensional cable box introduces a slew of bizarre characters, while the emotional depth comes from the Smiths confronting alternate life possibilities.
"Auto Erotic Assimilation" (S2E3)
Image credit: Adult Swim
This episode explores Rick's tumultuous relationship with Unity, highlighting the destructive nature of their connection. The tragic ending underscores Rick's profound loneliness and instability beneath his bravado.
"Total Rickall" (S2E4)
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"Total Rickall" encapsulates the essence of Rick and Morty with its clever premise of memory-invading parasites. The episode balances humor with emotional depth, featuring memorable side characters and a poignant climax.
AnswerSee ResultsAnd that's our (likely controversial) pick of the best *Rick and Morty* episodes of all time! Did your favorite *Rick and Morty* episode make the cut? Let us know in the comments.
