After seven remarkable seasons, Rick and Morty has cemented its status as one of the greatest animated sitcoms ever created. The show's unique blend of high-concept storytelling, absurd humor, and deeply emotional character development sets it apart, despite the often lengthy intervals between seasons. While Rick and Morty typically follows an annual release schedule, fans have had to wait a bit longer for Season 8 due to the 2023 five-month Writers Guild strike.
As we eagerly await the next installment, let's dive into IGN's selection of the top 15 Rick and Morty 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)
Image credit: Adult Swim
This Season 3 episode masterfully defies expectations. Initially billed as a journey 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 loose end from a previous episode, setting the stage for a significant confrontation in Season 5.
"Solaricks" (S6E1)
Image credit: Adult Swim
Although Season 6 may not be the strongest overall, its premiere, "Solaricks," stands out. Picking up from the dramatic Season 5 finale, this episode follows Rick and Morty as they navigate a universe without portals, leading to a hilarious misadventure. It also delves deeper into Rick's rivalry with Rick Prime and cleverly utilizes the Beth/Space Beth dynamic, with Jerry unexpectedly showcasing his bravery.
"One Crew Over the Crewcoo’s Morty" (S4E3)
Image credit: Adult Swim
Heist movies are thrilling, and Rick and Morty takes this genre to new heights with this Season 4 episode. The plot, featuring Rick's Heist-o-Tron and its nemesis Rand-o-Tron, becomes increasingly absurd and entertaining. The episode also brings back fan-favorite Mr. Poopybutthole and delivers the iconic line, "I'm Pickle Rick!!!!"
"The Ricks Must Be Crazy" (S2E6)
Image credit: Adult Swim
Ever curious about the power source of Rick's versatile spaceship? This episode reveals the microverse powering Rick's battery, leading to a mind-bending adventure. As Rick clashes with Zeep Zanflorp, the show explores existential themes while providing a humorous subplot involving Summer's protection by Rick's ship.
"Rickmurai Jack" (S5E10)
Image credit: Adult Swim
The Season 5 finale answers the burning question about Evil Morty's motives. Starting with a humorous take on Rick's crow obsession, the episode shifts focus to Evil Morty's plans for the Citadel. It reveals his desire for a place free from Rick's influence, highlighting Rick's self-destructive nature.
"Meeseeks and Destroy" (S1E5)
Image credit: Adult Swim
This episode proves that supporting characters like Beth and Jerry can steal the spotlight. While Morty's adventure is memorable, Mr. Meeseeks' quest to help Beth and Jerry achieve their goals is the highlight. Jerry's golfing woes add a comedic touch to this early gem.
"Mort Dinner Rick Andre" (S5E1)
Image credit: Adult Swim
Season 5 introduces Mr. Nimbus, a hilarious parody of Aquaman and Namor. While the feud between Rick and Mr. Nimbus plays out in the background, the episode focuses on Morty's encounter with beings from a dimension where time moves differently. A subplot involving Beth and Jerry contemplating a threesome with the King of Atlantis adds to the humor.
"The Vat of Acid Episode" (S4E8)
Image credit: Adult Swim
This episode starts with a deceptive premise, leading viewers to expect one thing before taking a wildly funny turn. Morty's frustration leads to the creation of a save point button, allowing him to rewind time. The episode blends high-concept sci-fi with humor and emotional twists, culminating in a heartbreaking realization for Morty.
"Pickle Rick" (S3E3)
Image credit: Adult Swim
"Pickle Rick" is the epitome of Rick and Morty's wackiness. Rick transforms into a sentient pickle to avoid family therapy, leading to a series of absurd events, including a showdown with Jaguar. The episode's over-the-top nature and memorable moments have made it a fan favorite.
"Rick Potion No. 9" (S1E6)
Image credit: Adult Swim
"Rick Potion No. 9" marks a turning point for the series, finding its unique voice. Morty's attempt to win Jessica's love goes disastrously wrong, forcing Rick and Morty to abandon their dimension. The episode's shocking conclusion has lasting repercussions on the characters.
"The Wedding Squanchers" (S2E10)
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What begins as a celebration of Birdperson and Tammy's wedding quickly escalates into chaos as the Galactic Federation targets Rick. The episode's emotional climax sees Rick sacrificing himself, leaving the Smith family to navigate life on an alien planet. It's a powerful end to Season 2.
"Mortynight Run" (S2E2)
Image credit: Adult Swim
In "Mortynight Run," Morty's desire to protect an alien named Fart leads to a series of twists and emotional moments. The episode's highlights include Jermaine Clement's musical number and Morty's harrowing experience with the arcade game Roy: A Life Well Lived. Jerry's subplot at a Jerry-only daycare adds humor and depth.
"Rixty Minutes" (S1E8)
Image credit: Adult Swim
"Rixty Minutes" showcases Rick and Morty's ability to create a compelling episode centered around watching TV. The Smiths explore Rick's interdimensional cable box, introducing memorable characters like Ants in My Eyes Johnson. The episode also delves into the family's emotional struggles, referencing the tragic events of "Rick Potion No. 9."
"Auto Erotic Assimilation" (S2E3)
Image credit: Adult Swim
This episode explores Rick's tumultuous relationship with Unity, a hive mind controlling an entire planet. As Rick and Unity's hosts indulge in excess, the episode reveals the toxic nature of their relationship. The tragic ending, with Rick nearly taking his own life, underscores the show's deeper themes of loneliness and instability.
"Total Rickall" (S2E4)
Image credit: Adult Swim
"Total Rickall" encapsulates everything that makes Rick and Morty exceptional. The episode's clever premise involves an alien parasite manipulating the Smiths' memories, introducing quirky characters like Hamurai and Sleepy Gary. The emotional journey from humor to heartbreak, culminating with the revelation of Mr. Poopybutthole, solidifies its place as the top episode.
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.
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