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After seven seasons, Rick and Morty has solidified its place as one of the premier animated sitcoms, captivating audiences with its unique blend of high-concept storytelling, absurd humor, and deeply emotional character development. Despite the often lengthy waits between seasons, the show's dedicated fanbase eagerly anticipates each new installment. With Season 8 arriving this year after delays due to the 2023 Writers Guild strike, the excitement is palpable. As we count down the days, let's dive into IGN's selection of the top 15 Rick and Morty episodes, exploring where iconic episodes like "Pickle Rick" and "Rixty Minutes" rank.
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 the underwater kingdom of Atlantis, "The Ricklantis Mixup" shifts focus to the Citadel, exploring the lives of various Ricks and Mortys. This unexpected narrative choice not only delivers a compelling story but also 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
While Season 6 may not be the strongest in the series, it kicks off with a bang in "Solaricks." Following the dramatic Season 5 finale, this episode sees Rick and Morty navigating a universe without portals, leading to a humorous yet poignant adventure. It deepens the lore around Rick's rivalry with Rick Prime and cleverly utilizes the Beth/Space Beth dynamic, while also showcasing Jerry's unexpected heroism.
“One Crew Over the Crewcoo’s Morty” (S4E3)
Image credit: Adult Swim
Heist movies get a hilarious twist in this Season 4 episode. With a plot that becomes increasingly absurd, "One Crew Over the Crewcoo’s Morty" introduces Rick's Heist-o-Tron and his nemesis, Rand-o-Tron. The episode's success lies in its ability to escalate a ridiculous premise into a comedic masterpiece, while also bringing back the beloved character Mr. Poopybutthole and delivering a memorable meme-worthy line.
"The Ricks Must Be Crazy" (S2E6)
Image credit: Adult Swim
This episode delves into the mechanics of Rick's spaceship, revealing the microverse that powers it. As Rick clashes with Zeep Zanflorp, the series explores existential themes while maintaining its signature humor. A subplot involving Summer adds another layer of entertainment, making "The Ricks Must Be Crazy" a standout episode.
“Rickmurai Jack” (S5E10)
Image credit: Adult Swim
The Season 5 finale, "Rickmurai Jack," resolves the mystery surrounding Evil Morty's intentions. With a blend of anime-inspired action and a surprising twist, the episode reveals Evil Morty's desire for freedom from Rick's influence. This narrative choice underscores the series' ability to subvert expectations and delve into complex character motivations.
"Meeseeks and Destroy" (S1E5)
Image credit: Adult Swim
This episode showcases the potential of supporting characters, with Beth and Jerry taking center stage. While Morty's adventure is memorable, Mr. Meeseeks steals the show, highlighting the comedic and existential elements that define Rick and Morty. Jerry's golfing misadventure adds a humorous touch to this standout episode.
“Mort Dinner Rick Andre” (S5E1)
Image credit: Adult Swim
Season 5 kicks off with the introduction of Mr. Nimbus, a hilarious parody of aquatic superheroes. While the feud between Rick and Mr. Nimbus provides background humor, the episode's focus on Morty's encounter with beings from a faster-moving dimension, combined with a quirky subplot involving Beth and Jerry, makes it a memorable season premiere.
“The Vat of Acid Episode” (S4E8)
Image credit: Adult Swim
This episode masterfully misleads viewers with its title and opening, only to take a wild and humorous turn. Morty's quest for control leads to the creation of a time-rewind button, resulting in a blend of high-concept sci-fi and emotional depth. "The Vat of Acid Episode" exemplifies Rick and Morty's ability to balance humor with poignant storytelling.
"Pickle Rick" (S3E3)
Image credit: Adult Swim
"Pickle Rick" is a cultural phenomenon, spawning countless memes. Rick's transformation into a pickle to avoid family therapy leads to a series of absurd and action-packed events. This episode epitomizes the show's wackiness and over-the-top humor, cementing its place in Rick and Morty lore.
"Rick Potion No. 9" (S1E6)
Image credit: Adult Swim
"Rick Potion No. 9" 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 forces Rick and Morty to abandon their dimension. The episode's impact reverberates through subsequent seasons, showcasing the show's willingness to take bold narrative risks.
"The Wedding Squanchers" (S2E10)
Image credit: Adult Swim
"The Wedding Squanchers" starts as a lighthearted celebration but quickly escalates into chaos as the Galactic Federation targets Rick. The episode's emotional climax, with Rick's self-sacrifice, is one of the series' most poignant moments. It encapsulates Rick and Morty's ability to blend humor with intense drama.
"Mortynight Run" (S2E2)
Image credit: Adult Swim
In "Mortynight Run," Morty's determination to protect an alien named Fart leads to a series of twists and emotional confrontations. The episode's strength lies in its attention to detail, from Jermaine Clement's musical number to Morty's harrowing arcade game experience. A standout Jerry subplot adds depth to this memorable episode.
"Rixty Minutes" (S1E8)
Image credit: Adult Swim
"Rixty Minutes" transforms a simple premise—watching TV—into one of the series' best episodes. The introduction of Rick's interdimensional cable box leads to a parade of bizarre and hilarious clips, while also exploring the emotional struggles of the Smith family. This episode perfectly balances humor and depth, showcasing Rick and Morty's versatility.
"Auto Erotic Assimilation" (S2E3)
Image credit: Adult Swim
"Auto Erotic Assimilation" features a clever storyline involving Rick's reunion with his ex-lover Unity. As their relationship spirals into chaos, the episode delves into themes of love and loneliness, culminating in a heart-wrenching climax. It's a powerful reminder of the emotional complexity beneath Rick's bravado.
"Total Rickall" (S2E4)
Image credit: Adult Swim
"Total Rickall" encapsulates everything that makes Rick and Morty great. The episode's premise—an alien parasite invading the Smiths' memories—leads to a mix of humor and emotional drama. With a cast of memorable side characters and a poignant exploration of memory and identity, "Total Rickall" stands as a testament to the series' storytelling prowess.
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.
