After seven seasons, *Rick and Morty* has solidified its place as one of the best animated sitcoms ever created. The show's unique mix of high-concept storytelling, absurd humor, and emotionally raw characterization is unparalleled, even if fans often endure long waits between seasons. While *Rick and Morty* had shifted to an annual release schedule, Season 8's arrival this year was delayed due to the 2023 five-month Writers Guild strike.
As we eagerly await the next installment of *Rick and Morty*, let's dive into IGN's selection of the top episodes. Where do classics like "Pickle Rick" and "Rixty Minutes" rank? Keep reading to discover our picks.
The Top 15 Rick and Morty Episodes
View 16 Images
"The Ricklantis Mixup" (S3E7)
Image credit: Adult Swim
This Season 3 episode masterfully defies expectations. Initially billed as an adventure to the underwater kingdom of 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 season, setting the stage for a significant confrontation in Season 5.
"Solaricks" (S6E1)
Image credit: Adult Swim
While Season 6 may not be the strongest, it kicks off with a stellar premiere in "Solaricks." Following the dramatic Season 5 finale, Rick and Morty navigate a universe without portals, leading to a hilarious misadventure. The episode deepens the rivalry between Rick and Rick Prime and cleverly utilizes the Beth/Space Beth dynamic. Plus, it showcases Jerry's unexpected badassery.
"One Crew Over the Crewcoo’s Morty" (S4E3)
Image credit: Adult Swim
Heist movies can be overwhelming, but Rick and Morty's take on them is pure fun. This Season 4 episode features a hilariously complex plot that escalates over 20 minutes. Introducing Rick's Heist-o-Tron and his nemesis Rand-o-Tron, the episode brilliantly builds on its absurd premise. It 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 wondered about the power source of Rick's versatile spaceship? This episode delves into the microverse that fuels it, leading Rick and Morty on a mind-bending journey. As Rick clashes with Zeep Zanflorp, voiced by Stephen Colbert, the show explores existential themes and the sacrifices behind Rick's adventures. Meanwhile, a humorous subplot sees Rick's ship fiercely protecting Summer.
"Rickmurai Jack" (S5E10)
Image credit: Adult Swim
Following the resolution of Birdperson's fate in "Rickternal Friendshine of the Spotless Mort," the Season 5 finale answers the burning question about Evil Morty's plans. "Rickmurai Jack" starts with a humorous nod to Rick's crow obsession, complete with anime-style fight scenes. Evil Morty's true intentions are revealed, not as a battle for the multiverse, but a quest for freedom from Rick's influence, highlighting Rick's self-destructive nature.
"Meeseeks and Destroy" (S1E5)
Image credit: Adult Swim
This episode showcases the potential of supporting characters like Beth and Jerry. While Morty's adventure choice leads to trauma, the real star is Mr. Meeseeks, whose brief existence is dedicated to helping others. Beth's quest for emotional fulfillment contrasts sharply with Jerry's struggle to improve his golf game, resulting in comedic chaos.
"Mort Dinner Rick Andre" (S5E1)
Image credit: Adult Swim
Season 5's premiere introduces Mr. Nimbus, a hilarious parody of Aquaman/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 faster. A subplot involving Beth and Jerry contemplating a threesome with the King of Atlantis adds to the episode's comedic brilliance.
"The Vat of Acid Episode" (S4E8)
Image credit: Adult Swim
This episode starts with a misleading premise before taking a wild, humorous turn. Morty's frustration over not leading adventures leads to the creation of a save point button, allowing him to rewind time. However, this power soon spirals out of control, blending high-concept sci-fi with emotional depth and showcasing Morty's growth through heartbreak.
"Pickle Rick" (S3E3)
Image credit: Adult Swim
The episode that spawned countless memes, "Pickle Rick" sees Rick transform into a sentient pickle to avoid family therapy. His journey through rat-infested sewers and a confrontation with Jaguar showcases the show's wackiest and most over-the-top moments, culminating in Rick's reluctant admission of his extreme actions.
"Rick Potion No. 9" (S1E6)
Image credit: Adult Swim
As Rick and Morty found its voice, "Rick Potion No. 9" struck the perfect balance of 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 abandon their dimension. The repercussions of this episode echo through subsequent seasons.
"The Wedding Squanchers" (S2E10)
Image credit: Adult Swim
Starting as a lighthearted celebration, "The Wedding Squanchers" quickly turns chaotic as the Galactic Federation targets Rick. With Earth under occupation, the Smith family struggles to adapt to their new alien home, leading to Rick's emotional sacrifice. This episode's dramatic conclusion is one of the series' most impactful moments.
"Mortynight Run" (S2E2)
Image credit: Adult Swim
In "Mortynight Run," Morty's determination to protect the alien Fart leads to a series of twists and emotional highs. The episode stands out with its attention to detail, from Jermaine Clement's David Bowie-inspired musical number to Morty's traumatic arcade game experience. Jerry's subplot at a Jerry-only daycare adds another layer of humor.
"Rixty Minutes" (S1E8)
Image credit: Adult Swim
Only Rick and Morty could turn watching TV into one of its best episodes. The Smiths explore Rick's interdimensional cable, introducing fan-favorite characters like Ants in My Eyes Johnson. Amidst the humor, the episode delves into deeper themes as Jerry and Beth confront alternate life glimpses, and Morty consoles Summer about the events of "Rick Potion No. 9."
"Auto Erotic Assimilation" (S2E3)
Image credit: Adult Swim
This episode reunites Rick with his ex-lover Unity, a hive mind controlling an entire planet. Their reunion descends into hedonistic chaos, revealing why they were a poor match. The episode's tragic ending, with Rick nearly committing suicide, underscores his loneliness and instability beneath the surface.
"Total Rickall" (S2E4)
Image credit: Adult Swim
"Total Rickall" encapsulates everything that makes Rick and Morty great. An alien parasite invades the Smith household, creating a host of memorable characters like Hamurai and Sleepy Gary. The episode seamlessly blends humor with emotional depth as the family grapples with the destruction of their memories, with Mr. Poopybutthole's fate adding a poignant twist.
AnswerSee ResultsAnd that's our (likely controversial) pick of the best Rick and Morty episodes of all time! Did your favorite episode make the list? Share your thoughts in the comments.
