After seven seasons, "Rick and Morty" has solidified its status as one of the greatest animated sitcoms ever created. Its unique combination of high-concept storytelling, absurd humor, and emotionally charged characters sets it apart, even as fans endure lengthy waits between seasons. Season 8, arriving this year after a delay due to the 2023 Writers Guild strike, marks a longer-than-usual hiatus.
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 subverts expectations. Initially billed as a journey to Atlantis, it pivots to focus on the Citadel, exploring the lives of other Ricks and Mortys. The unexpected ending ties up a loose plot thread and sets up a significant conflict for Season 5.
"Solaricks" (S6E1)
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While Season 6 may not be the strongest, its premiere, "Solaricks," shines brightly. Following the dramatic Season 5 finale, it follows Rick and Morty navigating a universe without portals, leading to a series of hilarious misadventures. It deepens the rivalry with Rick Prime and cleverly utilizes the Beth/Space Beth dynamic, showcasing Jerry's unexpected badassery.
"One Crew Over the Crewcoo’s Morty" (S4E3)
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This episode hilariously parodies heist movies with an increasingly absurd plot. It introduces the Heist-o-Tron and its nemesis, Rand-o-Tron, and successfully builds upon a ridiculous premise. The return of Mr. Poopybutthole and the iconic line "I’m Pickle Rick!!!!" add to its charm.
"The Ricks Must Be Crazy" (S2E6)
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This episode delves into the mechanics of Rick's spaceship, revealing a microverse powering its battery. It features a mind-bending adventure and a feud with Zeep Zanflorp, while also offering a humorous subplot about Summer's protection by the ship.
"Rickmurai Jack" (S5E10)
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The Season 5 finale resolves the mystery of Evil Morty's intentions. It begins with a humorous nod to Rick's crow obsession and anime, then shifts focus to Evil Morty's quest for freedom from Rick's influence, highlighting Rick's self-destructive nature.
"Meeseeks and Destroy" (S1E5)
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This episode showcases the potential of supporting characters Beth and Jerry. While Morty's adventure is memorable, Mr. Meeseeks steals the show, struggling to help Beth and Jerry achieve their goals, with humorous and poignant results.
"Mort Dinner Rick Andre" (S5E1)
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The Season 5 premiere introduces Mr. Nimbus, a hilarious parody of Aquaman/Namor. While the feud with Rick plays out in the background, the episode focuses on Morty's encounter with beings from a dimension where time moves faster, alongside a comedic subplot involving Beth, Jerry, and the King of Atlantis.
"The Vat of Acid Episode" (S4E8)
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This episode misleads viewers with its title before taking a wild turn. Morty's desire for control leads to the creation of a save point button, resulting in time-rewinding chaos. It blends sci-fi with humor and emotional twists, culminating in a heart-wrenching moment for Morty.
"Pickle Rick" (S3E3)
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This episode became a cultural phenomenon with Rick turning into a pickle to avoid family therapy. The ensuing adventure, complete with rat battles and a showdown with Jaguar, showcases the series at its most absurd and memorable.
"Rick Potion No. 9" (S1E6)
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This episode marks a turning point for the series, blending sci-fi, humor, and nihilism. Morty's attempt to win Jessica's love goes disastrously wrong, leading to a shocking ending where Rick and Morty must leave their dimension, setting up long-lasting consequences.
"The Wedding Squanchers" (S2E10)
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Starting as a celebration, this episode quickly turns chaotic as the Galactic Federation targets Rick. The Smith family's struggle on an alien planet leads to Rick's emotional sacrifice, making it one of the series' most impactful moments.
"Mortynight Run" (S2E2)
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This episode sees Morty protecting an alien named Fart, leading to twists and emotional turmoil. It's highlighted by Jermaine Clement's musical number, Morty's arcade game trauma, and a standout Jerry subplot at a Jerry daycare.
"Rixty Minutes" (S1E8)
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An episode centered around watching TV becomes a showcase for the series' creativity. The Smiths explore Rick's interdimensional cable, introducing fan-favorite characters and offering deep insights into their alternate lives, culminating in a poignant reminder of "Rick Potion No. 9."
"Auto Erotic Assimilation" (S2E3)
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This episode reunites Rick with his ex-lover Unity, a hive mind controlling an entire planet. Their reunion descends into chaos, revealing the toxic nature of their relationship. The tragic ending underscores Rick's loneliness and instability.
"Total Rickall" (S2E4)
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"Total Rickall" encapsulates everything great about "Rick and Morty." An alien parasite invades the Smiths' memories, introducing a host of quirky characters. The episode balances humor with emotional depth, culminating in a dramatic and memorable conclusion.
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.
