After seven seasons, *Rick and Morty* has solidified its place as one of the most acclaimed animated sitcoms ever. Its unique mix of high-concept storytelling, wild humor, and deeply emotional character development is unmatched, though fans often endure long waits between seasons. The show typically follows an annual release schedule, but Season 8 faced delays due to the five-month Writers Guild strike in 2023, pushing its release to this year.
As we eagerly await the next installment of *Rick and Morty*, let's dive into IGN's selection of the top 15 episodes. From iconic episodes like "Pickle Rick" to fan favorites such as "Rixty Minutes," here's a closer look at what makes these episodes stand out.
The Top 15 Rick and Morty Episodes
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"The Ricklantis Mixup" (S3E7)
Image credit: Adult Swim
This Season 3 episode brilliantly subverts expectations by focusing not on Rick and Morty's journey to Atlantis, but on the lives of other Ricks and Mortys at the Citadel. It offers a poignant look at the less glamorous aspects of their existence and wraps up with a surprising twist that sets up a major conflict in Season 5.
"Solaricks" (S6E1)
Image credit: Adult Swim
Despite Season 6 being a weaker link, its premiere, "Solaricks," shines brightly. Following the intense Season 5 finale, Rick and Morty navigate a world without portals, leading to a humorous yet insightful adventure. The episode deepens the lore around Rick's rivalry with Rick Prime and cleverly utilizes the Beth/Space Beth dynamic, while also showcasing Jerry's unexpected heroics.
"One Crew Over the Crewcoo’s Morty" (S4E3)
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Rick and Morty takes the heist genre to new heights with this Season 4 gem. The episode introduces the Heist-o-Tron and its nemesis, Rand-o-Tron, unfolding a hilariously convoluted plot. It also marks the return of Mr. Poopybutthole and delivers a line that became an instant meme: "I’m Pickle Rick!!!!"
"The Ricks Must Be Crazy" (S2E6)
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This episode delves into the mechanics of Rick's spaceship, leading to an adventure in the microverse that powers its battery. Amidst a feud with Zeep Zanflorp, voiced by Stephen Colbert, the show explores existential themes while providing a comedic subplot involving Summer's protection by Rick's ship.
"Rickmurai Jack" (S5E10)
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The Season 5 finale answers the burning question about Evil Morty's motives. Starting with an amusing nod to Rick's crow obsession and anime-style fight scenes, the episode reveals 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 comedic potential of supporting characters, particularly Mr. Meeseeks, who assists the Smiths in their quests. While Morty's adventure takes a dark turn, the episode is memorable for its humorous exploration of Beth and Jerry's challenges.
"Mort Dinner Rick Andre" (S5E1)
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Season 5 kicks off with the introduction of Mr. Nimbus, a hilarious parody of aquatic superheroes. The episode cleverly balances the main plot with Morty's encounter with beings from a faster-moving dimension and a subplot involving Beth and Jerry's marital dynamics.
"The Vat of Acid Episode" (S4E8)
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This episode cleverly plays with expectations, introducing a save point button that allows Morty to rewind time. It blends high-concept sci-fi with humor and emotional depth, culminating in a poignant exploration of Morty's growth and the consequences of his actions.
"Pickle Rick" (S3E3)
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The episode that birthed countless memes, "Pickle Rick" follows Rick's extreme measures to avoid family therapy. From battling rats to confronting a killer named Jaguar, it showcases the show's penchant for absurdity and over-the-top action.
"Rick Potion No. 9" (S1E6)
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A turning point for the series, this episode strikes a balance between sci-fi, humor, and nihilism. Morty's attempt to win Jessica's affection leads to a Cronenberg disaster, forcing Rick and Morty to abandon their dimension—a decision that reverberates through the series.
"The Wedding Squanchers" (S2E10)
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This season finale starts as a celebration but quickly escalates into chaos with the Galactic Federation's attack on Rick. The episode's emotional climax sees Rick sacrificing himself, leaving the Smith family to adapt to life on an alien world.
"Mortynight Run" (S2E2)
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In this episode, Morty's mission to protect an alien named Fart leads to unexpected twists and emotional depth. Highlights include Jermaine Clement's musical number and Jerry's humorous encounters with his alternate selves at a Jerry daycare.
"Rixty Minutes" (S1E8)
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An episode centered around watching interdimensional TV, "Rixty Minutes" introduces beloved characters like Ants in My Eyes Johnson. It also delves into the Smiths' reactions to alternate realities and the lasting impact of "Rick Potion No. 9."
"Auto Erotic Assimilation" (S2E3)
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This episode explores Rick's tumultuous relationship with Unity, a hive mind. Their reunion leads to hedonistic chaos, culminating in a heart-wrenching near-suicide attempt by Rick, underscoring his deep-seated loneliness and instability.
"Total Rickall" (S2E4)
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"Total Rickall" encapsulates the essence of Rick and Morty with its clever premise of memory-altering parasites. From humorous characters like Hamurai and Sleepy Gary to the emotional turmoil of losing memories, it's a rollercoaster that ends with the tragic twist involving Mr. Poopybutthole.
