After seven seasons, Rick and Morty has firmly established itself as one of the best animated sitcoms in history. Its unique combination of high-concept storytelling, absurd humor, and deeply emotional character development is unmatched, even though fans often have to endure long waits between seasons. Although the series had shifted to an annual release schedule, Season 8's arrival this year was delayed due to the five-month Writers Guild strike in 2023.
As we eagerly await the next installment of Rick and Morty, let's delve into IGN's selection of the top episodes. Where do classics like "Pickle Rick" and "Rixty Minutes" rank? Continue reading to discover our list.
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 teased as an adventure to the underwater kingdom of Atlantis, "The Ricklantis Mixup" instead focuses on the Citadel, exploring the lives of various Ricks and Mortys who don't lead the typical adventurous lives. The episode culminates in a surprising twist that ties up a loose thread from a previous season, paving the way for a major conflict 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 dramatic Season 5 finale, this episode sees Rick and Morty navigating a universe without portals, leading to a humorous misadventure as displaced characters are returned to their home dimensions. It also deepens the backstory of Rick's rivalry with Rick Prime and cleverly utilizes the Beth/Space Beth dynamic, while showcasing Jerry's unexpected heroism.
"One Crew Over the Crewcoo’s Morty" (S4E3)
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Heist movies can be overwhelming with their complex plots, but Rick and Morty's take on the genre in this Season 4 episode is pure delight. With its increasingly absurd plot centered around Rick's Heist-o-Tron and his rival Rand-o-Tron, the episode is a testament to the show's ability to escalate a premise to hilarious heights. It also brings back fan-favorite Mr. Poopybutthole and delivers a memorable line that became an instant meme.
"The Ricks Must Be Crazy" (S2E6)
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Curious about the power source of Rick's versatile spaceship? This episode takes us on a mind-bending journey through the microverse that powers it. As Rick clashes with Zeep Zanflorp, voiced by Stephen Colbert, the episode delves into existential themes while providing a hilarious subplot involving Summer's protection by Rick's ship.
"Rickmurai Jack" (S5E10)
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After "Rickternal Friendshine of the Spotless Mort" answered questions about Birdperson's fate, the Season 5 finale, "Rickmurai Jack," finally reveals Evil Morty's true intentions. The episode begins with a comedic nod to Rick's crow obsession, complete with anime-inspired action, before shifting focus to Evil Morty's quest for freedom from Rick's influence, showcasing Rick's self-destructive tendencies.
"Meeseeks and Destroy" (S1E5)
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This episode demonstrates that supporting characters like Beth and Jerry can steal the spotlight. Morty's traumatic adventure is overshadowed by the introduction of Mr. Meeseeks, whose brief existence is dedicated to helping others achieve their goals. Beth's quest for emotional fulfillment and Jerry's struggle with his golf game provide both humor and depth.
"Mort Dinner Rick Andre" (S5E1)
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Season 5 introduced Mr. Nimbus, a hilarious parody of Aquaman/Namor, in this strong season opener. The episode cleverly balances the feud between Rick and Mr. Nimbus with Morty's encounter with beings from a dimension where time moves faster, and a humorous subplot involving Beth, Jerry, and the King of Atlantis.
"The Vat of Acid Episode" (S4E8)
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This episode starts with one premise but quickly shifts into a different, hilarious direction. Morty's desire to take control of their adventures leads to the creation of a save point button, allowing him to rewind time. However, this power soon backfires, blending high-concept sci-fi with emotional twists and turns.
"Pickle Rick" (S3E3)
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"Pickle Rick" became a cultural phenomenon, with Rick transforming into a sentient pickle to avoid family therapy. His bizarre journey, culminating in a showdown with a killer named Jaguar, exemplifies the show's penchant for the absurd and over-the-top.
"Rick Potion No. 9" (S1E6)
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As Rick and Morty found its footing, "Rick Potion No. 9" showcased the series' signature blend of sci-fi, humor, and nihilism. Morty's attempt to win Jessica's affection leads to catastrophic consequences, forcing Rick and Morty to abandon their dimension, an event that continues to impact the series.
"The Wedding Squanchers" (S2E10)
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Starting as a celebration of Birdperson and Tammy, this episode quickly escalates into chaos with the Galactic Federation's pursuit of Rick. The emotional climax sees Rick sacrificing himself, leaving Earth under occupation and the Smith family adjusting to life on an alien planet.
"Mortynight Run" (S2E2)
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In this episode, Rick and Morty clash over the fate of a rogue alien named Fart, voiced by Jermaine Clement. The episode is packed with twists, emotional depth, and standout moments, including Clement's Bowie-inspired performance and Morty's harrowing arcade game experience. It also features one of the best Jerry subplots, showcasing his interactions with alternate versions of himself.
"Rixty Minutes" (S1E8)
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An entire episode dedicated to watching TV becomes one of the series' best. The Smiths explore Rick's interdimensional cable, introducing fan-favorite characters like Ants in My Eyes Johnson and Gazorpazorpfield. The episode also delves into deeper themes as Jerry and Beth confront alternate life paths, and Morty consoles Summer about the aftermath 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 spirals into excess, revealing why they were a poor match. The episode's tragic conclusion, with Rick nearly taking his own life, underscores the underlying loneliness and instability beneath his bravado.
"Total Rickall" (S2E4)
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"Total Rickall" encapsulates everything that makes Rick and Morty exceptional. An alien parasite invades the Smith household, creating false memories and a host of bizarre characters like Hamurai and Sleepy Gary. The episode transitions from humor to emotional drama as the family grapples with the loss of memories, with Mr. Poopybutthole's fate adding a poignant touch.
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.
