After seven seasons, Rick and Morty has solidified its place as one of the greatest animated sitcoms ever produced. The show's unique mix of high-concept storytelling, absurd humor, and emotionally resonant character development is unrivaled, though fans often endure long waits between seasons.
Following a shift to an annual release schedule, Season 8 faced delays due to the 2023 Writers Guild strike, extending the wait for new episodes. As we eagerly anticipate the next installment, let's dive into IGN's selection of the top 15 Rick and Morty episodes. How 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)
Image credit: Adult Swim
This Season 3 episode masterfully subverts expectations. Initially teased as an adventure to Atlantis, "The Ricklantis Mixup" instead focuses on the Citadel, showcasing the diverse lives of various Ricks and Mortys. The episode's surprising conclusion ties up a previous plot thread spectacularly, paving the way for a significant confrontation in Season 5.
"Solaricks" (S6E1)
Image credit: Adult Swim
While Season 6 may not be the strongest, its premiere, "Solaricks," stands out. Following the intense Season 5 finale, Rick and Morty navigate a portal-less universe, leading to a humorous misadventure involving displaced characters returning home. The episode deepens the lore around Rick's rivalry with Rick Prime and cleverly utilizes the Beth/Space Beth dynamic, highlighting Jerry's unexpected heroism.
"One Crew Over the Crewcoo’s Morty" (S4E3)
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Heist movies can be convoluted, but Rick and Morty turns this into a strength with this Season 4 episode. The plot spirals into absurdity with the introduction of the Heist-o-Tron and its adversary, Rand-o-Tron. The episode not only entertains with its ridiculous premise but also brings back fan-favorite Mr. Poopybutthole and delivers the memorable line, "I’m Pickle Rick!!!!"
"The Ricks Must Be Crazy" (S2E6)
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This episode delves into the mechanics of Rick's spaceship, leading to a journey through the microverse powering his battery. Amidst Rick's conflict with Zeep Zanflorp, voiced by Stephen Colbert, the series explores existential themes and the sacrifices enabling Rick's adventures. Simultaneously, a comedic subplot showcases the ship's efforts to protect Summer.
"Rickmurai Jack" (S5E10)
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Following "Rickternal Friendshine of the Spotless Mort," the Season 5 finale answers the burning question about Evil Morty's intentions. Starting with a humorous nod to Rick's crow obsession and anime influences, the episode shifts focus to Evil Morty's quest for freedom from Rick's influence, offering a refreshing twist on typical villain narratives.
"Meeseeks and Destroy" (S1E5)
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This episode highlights the potential of supporting characters Beth and Jerry. While Morty's adventure-seeking goes awry, the introduction of Mr. Meeseeks, whose existence is dedicated to helping others, steals the show. The episode humorously contrasts Beth's emotional journey with Jerry's golfing struggles.
"Mort Dinner Rick Andre" (S5E1)
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Season 5 introduces Mr. Nimbus, a parody of aquatic superheroes, in this hilarious premiere. The episode cleverly balances the feud between Rick and Nimbus with Morty's encounter with beings from a dimension with accelerated time, and a humorous subplot involving Beth, Jerry, and the King of Atlantis.
"The Vat of Acid Episode" (S4E8)
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Initially misleading with its title, this episode showcases Morty's desire for control, leading to the creation of a time-rewinding save point button. The episode brilliantly blends sci-fi concepts with humor and emotional twists, offering Morty a lesson in the consequences of his actions.
"Pickle Rick" (S3E3)
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"Pickle Rick" became an iconic episode, spawning countless memes. Rick's transformation into a pickle to avoid therapy leads to an absurd yet thrilling adventure, culminating in a confrontation with Jaguar. The episode exemplifies the show's penchant for over-the-top humor.
"Rick Potion No. 9" (S1E6)
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"Rick Potion No. 9" marks a pivotal moment in the series, balancing sci-fi, humor, and nihilism. Morty's attempt to win Jessica's affection leads to catastrophic results, forcing Rick and Morty to abandon their dimension. The episode's impact reverberates through subsequent seasons.
"The Wedding Squanchers" (S2E10)
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Starting with Birdperson and Tammy's wedding, "The Wedding Squanchers" quickly escalates into chaos as the Galactic Federation targets Rick. The episode's emotional peak sees Rick sacrificing himself, leaving the Smith family to adapt to life on an alien planet.
"Mortynight Run" (S2E2)
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In "Mortynight Run," Morty's mission to protect Fart leads to unexpected twists and emotional turmoil. The episode stands out with Jermaine Clement's musical performance and Morty's harrowing experience with Roy: A Life Well Lived, complemented by Jerry's amusing subplot at a Jerry daycare.
"Rixty Minutes" (S1E8)
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"Rixty Minutes" transforms television watching into a showcase of the multiverse's oddities, introducing beloved characters like Ants in My Eyes Johnson. Beyond the humor, the episode delves into the Smiths' reflections on alternate lives, revealing the lasting impact of "Rick Potion No. 9."
"Auto Erotic Assimilation" (S2E3)
Image credit: Adult Swim
This episode reunites Rick with his ex-lover Unity, exploring their destructive relationship. As their reunion spirals into chaos, the episode offers a poignant look at Rick's loneliness, culminating in a near-suicide attempt that underscores his emotional turmoil.
"Total Rickall" (S2E4)
Image credit: Adult Swim
"Total Rickall" encapsulates the essence of Rick and Morty, blending clever storytelling with humor and emotional depth. The alien parasite-induced memory invasion introduces memorable characters like Hamurai and Sleepy Gary, while the Smiths grapple with the loss of their memories. The episode's impact is felt deeply, especially through the character of Mr. Poopybutthole.
What's the best Rick and Morty episode of all time?
- Total Rickall
- Auto Erotic Assimilation
- Rixty Minutes
- Mortynight Run
- The Wedding Squanchers
- Rick Potion No. 9
- Pickle Rick
- The Vat of Acid Episode
- Mort Dinner Rick Andre
- Meeseeks and Destroy
- Rickmurai Jack
- The Ricks Must Be Crazy
- One Crew Over the Crewcoo’s Morty
- Solaricks
- The Ricklantis Mixup
- Another one (let us know in the comments!)
And that's our (likely controversial) pick of the best Rick and Morty episodes of all time! Did your favorite make the list? Share your thoughts in the comments.
