Top 15 Must-Watch Rick and Morty Episodes

After seven seasons, Rick and Morty has solidified its status as one of the most acclaimed animated sitcoms ever. The show masterfully combines high-concept storytelling, absurd humor, and emotionally raw character development, making it a standout series despite the sometimes lengthy waits between seasons. Season 8, arriving this year, faced delays due to the 2023 Writers Guild strike, but the anticipation only heightens our excitement.

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 explore.

The Top 15 Rick and Morty Episodes

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15. "The Ricklantis Mixup" (S3E7)

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This episode brilliantly defies expectations. Initially set to explore Rick and Morty's adventure in Atlantis, "The Ricklantis Mixup" instead focuses on the Citadel, showcasing the diverse lives of various Ricks and Mortys. The unexpected twist ties back to a previous plot point, paving the way for a significant confrontation in Season 5.

14. "Solaricks" (S6E1)

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While Season 6 may not be the strongest, its premiere, "Solaricks," stands out. Following the dramatic Season 5 finale, Rick and Morty navigate a universe without portals, leading to a humorous misadventure. The episode deepens the rivalry between Rick and Rick Prime and cleverly utilizes the Beth/Space Beth dynamic, while also showcasing Jerry's unexpected heroism.

13. "One Crew Over the Crewcoo’s Morty" (S4E3)

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This episode hilariously parodies heist movies with an increasingly absurd plot. Introducing Rick's Heist-o-Tron and his nemesis Rand-o-Tron, it builds on a ridiculous premise with great success. The return of Mr. Poopybutthole and the iconic line "I'm Pickle Rick!!!!" add to its memorable impact.

12. "The Ricks Must Be Crazy" (S2E6)

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This episode delves into the mechanics of Rick's spaceship, leading to a mind-bending journey through the microverse powering his battery. As Rick clashes with Zeep Zanflorp, the show explores existential themes while delivering a comedic subplot involving Summer's protection.

11. "Rickmurai Jack" (S5E10)

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The Season 5 finale resolves the mystery of Evil Morty's intentions. Starting with Rick's crow obsession and anime-inspired fight scenes, the episode shifts focus to Evil Morty's quest for freedom from Rick's influence, highlighting Rick's self-destructive tendencies.

10. "Meeseeks and Destroy" (S1E5)

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This episode showcases the potential of supporting characters, with Beth and Jerry stealing the show. While Morty's adventure is memorable, Mr. Meeseeks' quest to help others, particularly Jerry's golf game, provides the episode's comedic highlight.

9. "Mort Dinner Rick Andre" (S5E1)

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Introducing Mr. Nimbus, a hilarious parody of Aquaman/Namor, this episode kicks off Season 5 with a bang. While the feud with Mr. Nimbus plays out in the background, the main focus is on Morty's encounter with beings from a dimension where time moves faster, alongside a humorous subplot involving Beth and Jerry.

8. "The Vat of Acid Episode" (S4E8)

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This episode cleverly subverts expectations, starting with a seemingly straightforward plot before introducing a time-rewind button. It blends high-concept sci-fi with humor and emotional depth, culminating in a heart-wrenching twist for Morty.

7. "Pickle Rick" (S3E3)

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A cultural phenomenon, "Pickle Rick" sees Rick transform into a pickle to avoid family therapy, leading to a wild adventure. This episode epitomizes the show's wackiness and has become a meme staple.

6. "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, forcing Rick and Morty to abandon their dimension, a decision that continues to impact the series.

5. "The Wedding Squanchers" (S2E10)

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Starting as a celebration, this episode quickly escalates into chaos as the Galactic Federation targets Rick. The emotional climax sees Rick sacrificing himself, leaving a lasting impact on the series.

4. "Mortynight Run" (S2E2)

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This episode features Morty's moral struggle to protect an alien named Fart, alongside memorable moments like Jermaine Clement's musical number and Jerry's hilarious daycare experience.

3. "Rixty Minutes" (S1E8)

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An episode centered around watching TV becomes a showcase of the show's creativity. Introducing iconic characters and exploring alternate realities, it balances humor with emotional depth, referencing the tragic events of "Rick Potion No. 9."

2. "Auto Erotic Assimilation" (S2E3)

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This episode reunites Rick with Unity, exploring their toxic relationship. The tragic ending, with Rick nearly committing suicide, underscores the series' deeper themes of loneliness and instability.

1. "Total Rickall" (S2E4)

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"Total Rickall" encapsulates the essence of Rick and Morty. With a clever premise involving memory-altering parasites, it delivers both humor and emotional depth, introducing memorable characters and culminating in a poignant conclusion.

What's the best Rick and Morty episode of all time?

• Total Rickall
• Auto Erotic Assimilation
• Rixty Minutes
• Mortynight Run
• The Wedding Squanchers
• Rick Potion No. 9
• Pickle Rick
• The Vat of Acid Episode
• Mort Dinner Rick Andre
• Meeseeks and Destroy
• Rickmurai Jack
• The Ricks Must Be Crazy
• One Crew Over the Crewcoo’s Morty
• Solaricks
• The Ricklantis Mixup
• Another one (let us know in the comments!)

And that's our (likely controversial) pick of the best Rick and Morty episodes of all time! Did your favorite episode make the cut? Let us know in the comments.