After seven seasons, Rick and Morty has solidified its status as one of the greatest animated sitcoms ever created. Its unique mix of high-concept storytelling, absurd humor, and emotionally charged character development is unparalleled, despite the often lengthy waits between seasons. While the show had shifted to 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 curated list 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)
Image credit: Adult Swim
This Season 3 episode masterfully subverts expectations. Originally teased as a journey to Atlantis, "The Ricklantis Mixup" instead focuses on the Citadel, exploring the lives of various Ricks and Mortys. The unexpected narrative shift and the resolution of a previous plot thread set the stage for a major confrontation in Season 5.
"Solaricks" (S6E1)
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While Season 6 may not be the strongest overall, its premiere, "Solaricks," stands out. Following the intense Season 5 finale, this episode showcases Rick and Morty's struggle in a world without portals, leading to a humorous adventure of displaced characters returning home. It deepens the lore around Rick Prime and cleverly utilizes the Beth/Space Beth dynamic, with a surprising highlight being 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's take on them is pure fun. This Season 4 episode features an intricate plot that escalates hilariously, introducing Rick's Heist-o-Tron and his rival, Rand-o-Tron. The episode 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 curious about the power source of Rick's spaceship? This episode delves into the microverse that fuels it, pitting Rick against Zeep Zanflorp (voiced by Stephen Colbert). It's a mind-bending journey that touches on existential themes and the sacrifices behind Rick's adventures, with a humorous subplot involving Summer's protection by the ship.
“Rickmurai Jack” (S5E10)
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After "Rickternal Friendshine of the Spotless Mort" resolved Birdperson's fate, the Season 5 finale tackled the mystery of Evil Morty's intentions. "Rickmurai Jack" starts with a humorous nod to Rick's crow obsession and anime influences before unveiling Evil Morty's plan to escape Rick's influence, proving that Rick's greatest enemy is himself.
"Meeseeks and Destroy" (S1E5)
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This episode showcased the potential of supporting characters, with Beth and Jerry taking the spotlight. While Morty's adventure goes awry, the real star is Mr. Meeseeks, whose brief life is dedicated to helping others. Beth's quest for emotional fulfillment contrasts sharply with Jerry's golfing woes.
“Mort Dinner Rick Andre” (S5E1)
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The Season 5 premiere introduced Mr. Nimbus, a hilarious parody of Aquaman/Namor. While the feud between Rick and Mr. Nimbus adds background humor, the episode's focus is on Morty's encounter with beings from a dimension where time moves faster. The subplot involving Beth, Jerry, and the King of Atlantis adds to the episode's comedic charm.
“The Vat of Acid Episode” (S4E8)
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This episode cleverly misleads viewers before taking a hilarious turn. Morty's desire to take charge leads to the creation of a save point button, allowing him to rewind time. The blend of sci-fi concepts, humor, and emotional twists showcases Rick and Morty at its best, with Morty learning a harsh lesson about the consequences of his actions.
"Pickle Rick" (S3E3)
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An episode that became a cultural phenomenon, "Pickle Rick" sees Rick turning himself into a pickle to avoid family therapy. His journey from a pickle to battling a killer named Jaguar is as wacky as it gets, yet it forces Rick to confront his own excesses.
"Rick Potion No. 9" (S1E6)
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This episode marked a turning point for the series, blending high-concept sci-fi with dark humor and nihilism. Morty's attempt to win Jessica's affection backfires spectacularly, leading to a Cronenberg-infested dimension and a shocking conclusion that continues to impact the series.
"The Wedding Squanchers" (S2E10)
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Starting as a celebration of Birdperson and Tammy's wedding, this episode quickly spirals into chaos as the Galactic Federation targets Rick. The emotional climax, where Rick sacrifices himself, is one of the series' most powerful moments, perfectly capping off the season.
"Mortynight Run" (S2E2)
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This episode pits Rick against Morty's desire to protect an alien named Fart. Full of twists and emotional depth, it's highlighted by Jermaine Clement's musical number and Morty's harrowing experience with the arcade game Roy: A Life Well Lived. The Jerry subplot at the Jerry daycare adds a humorous touch.
"Rixty Minutes" (S1E8)
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An episode where watching TV becomes an adventure, "Rixty Minutes" introduces the interdimensional cable box. It's filled with bizarre clips and memorable characters like Ants in My Eyes Johnson. The episode also delves into the emotional struggles of the Smith family, with Morty revealing the aftermath of "Rick Potion No. 9."
"Auto Erotic Assimilation" (S2E3)
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This episode reunites Rick with Unity, a hive mind controlling an entire planet. Their reunion leads to chaos, highlighting their toxic relationship. The tragic ending, where Rick nearly commits suicide, underscores his loneliness and instability beneath his bravado.
"Total Rickall" (S2E4)
Image credit: Adult Swim
"Total Rickall" encapsulates everything great about Rick and Morty. An alien parasite invades the Smiths' memories, creating a slew of memorable characters like Hamurai and Sleepy Gary. The episode balances humor with emotional depth, culminating in the heart-wrenching realization of their manipulated memories, with Mr. Poopybutthole's fate adding a poignant touch.
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 Rick and Morty episode make the cut? Let us know in the comments.
