After seven seasons, Rick and Morty has firmly established itself as one of the most acclaimed animated sitcoms ever. Its unique fusion of high-concept storytelling, absurd humor, and emotionally resonant character development sets it apart, even if fans often endure lengthy waits between new episodes. While the series had shifted to an annual release schedule, Season 8 faced delays due to the 2023 five-month Writers Guild strike, pushing its release further into the year.
As we eagerly await the next installment, let's delve into IGN's selection of the top 15 Rick and Morty episodes. Where do iconic episodes 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, showcasing the diverse lives of other Ricks and Mortys. The unexpected ending ties up a previous plot thread brilliantly, paving the way for a significant Season 5 showdown.
"Solaricks" (S6E1)
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Although Season 6 might not be the strongest, its premiere, "Solaricks," stands out. Following the dramatic Season 5 finale, Rick and Morty navigate a universe without portals, leading to a hilarious misadventure. The episode deepens the rivalry between Rick and Rick Prime and cleverly utilizes the Beth/Space Beth dynamic, showcasing Jerry's unexpected heroism.
"One Crew Over the Crewcoo’s Morty" (S4E3)
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Heist movies get a hilarious twist in this Season 4 episode. The plot, centered around Rick's Heist-o-Tron and his nemesis Rand-o-Tron, becomes increasingly absurd, yet brilliantly executed. The episode also reintroduces 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 reveals the inner workings of Rick's spaceship, leading to a mind-bending journey through the microverse powering its battery. As Rick clashes with Zeep Zanflorp, the series explores existential themes while delivering a hilarious subplot involving Summer's protection.
"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 to Evil Morty's plan to escape Rick's influence, revealing a poignant narrative about freedom.
"Meeseeks and Destroy" (S1E5)
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This episode showcases the potential of supporting characters like Beth and Jerry. While Morty's adventure is memorable, Mr. Meeseeks steals the show, highlighting the challenges of helping others achieve their goals, especially when it comes to Jerry's golf game.
"Mort Dinner Rick Andre" (S5E1)
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Season 5 kicks off with the introduction of Mr. Nimbus, a hilarious parody of Aquaman/Namor. The episode cleverly balances the feud between Rick and Mr. Nimbus with Morty's encounter with beings from a faster-moving dimension, and a humorous subplot involving Beth and Jerry's threesome contemplation.
"The Vat of Acid Episode" (S4E8)
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This episode cleverly subverts expectations, starting with a seemingly straightforward premise before delving into time manipulation and emotional depth. Morty's use of a save point button leads to both comedic and heart-wrenching moments, showcasing the series' ability to blend sci-fi with poignant storytelling.
"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. The ensuing adventure, complete with rat battles and a showdown with Jaguar, epitomizes the show's wackiness and over-the-top humor.
"Rick Potion No. 9" (S1E6)
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This episode marks a turning point for the series, blending high-concept sci-fi with dark humor and nihilism. Morty's attempt to win Jessica's affection goes disastrously wrong, leading to a shocking conclusion that reverberates through subsequent seasons.
"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, with Rick's self-sacrifice, delivers one of the series' most poignant moments, perfectly capping off the season.
"Mortynight Run" (S2E2)
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In this episode, Morty's mission to protect an alien named Fart leads to unexpected twists and emotional depth. Highlights include Jermaine Clement's David Bowie-inspired musical number and Morty's traumatic experience with the arcade game Roy: A Life Well Lived, alongside a standout Jerry subplot.
"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 memorable characters like Ants in My Eyes Johnson. The episode 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, exploring their toxic relationship and its consequences. The tragic ending, with Rick's near-suicide, underscores the series' ability to blend humor with deep emotional narratives, revealing Rick's underlying loneliness.
"Total Rickall" (S2E4)
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"Total Rickall" encapsulates everything that makes Rick and Morty great. The clever premise of an alien parasite invading the Smiths' memories introduces a host of memorable characters, from Hamurai to Sleepy Gary. The episode seamlessly transitions from humor to emotional drama, culminating in the poignant impact on the family.
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.
