Top 15 Rick and Morty Episodes Revealed

After seven seasons, Rick and Morty has cemented its status as one of the most acclaimed animated sitcoms ever created. The show masterfully combines high-concept storytelling, absurd humor, and deeply emotional character development, making it a standout in its genre. Despite the anticipation for new episodes often stretching into months or even years, the wait for Season 8 has been particularly long due to the 2023 Writers Guild strike, which delayed production by five months.

As we eagerly await the next installment, let's dive into IGN's curated list of the top 15 Rick and Morty episodes. From iconic entries like "Pickle Rick" to fan favorites such as "Rixty Minutes," see where they rank in our countdown.

The Top 15 Rick and Morty Episodes

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15. "The Ricklantis Mixup" (S3E7)

This Season 3 episode masterfully subverts expectations by shifting focus from Rick and Morty to the Citadel, exploring the lives of various other Ricks and Mortys. "The Ricklantis Mixup" offers a poignant look at the less glamorous aspects of their universe, culminating in a surprising twist that sets up a major Season 5 confrontation.

14. "Solaricks" (S6E1)

While Season 6 may not be the strongest, its premiere, "Solaricks," shines brightly. Following the dramatic Season 5 finale, this episode sees Rick and Morty navigating a universe without portals, leading to a humorous misadventure. It also deepens the lore surrounding Rick's nemesis, Rick Prime, and showcases the Beth/Space Beth dynamic. Who knew Jerry could be such a hero?

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

Heist movies can be convoluted, but when Rick and Morty spoofs them, the result is pure comedic gold. "One Crew Over the Crewcoo’s Morty" introduces the Heist-o-Tron and its nemesis, Rand-o-Tron, in a plot that only grows more absurd. The episode also brings back Mr. Poopybutthole and delivers the meme-worthy line, "I'm Pickle Rick!"

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

This episode delves into the fascinating mechanics behind Rick's spaceship, taking viewers on a mind-bending journey through the microverse powering Rick's battery. It features a feud with Zeep Zanflorp (voiced by Stephen Colbert) and explores the futility of existence, all while delivering a hilarious subplot involving Summer's protection by Rick's ship.

11. "Rickmurai Jack" (S5E10)

The Season 5 finale, "Rickmurai Jack," resolves the mystery of Evil Morty's intentions. Opening with a humorous nod to Rick's crow obsession and anime-style fight scenes, the episode shifts focus to Evil Morty's plan to escape Rick's influence. It's a clever twist that showcases Rick as his own worst enemy.

10. "Meeseeks and Destroy" (S1E5)

This episode highlights the comedic potential of supporting characters, with Beth and Jerry stealing the show. While Morty's adventure is memorable, Mr. Meeseeks' quest to help others achieve their goals—particularly Jerry's golf game—provides the episode's heart and humor.

9. "Mort Dinner Rick Andre" (S5E1)

Season 5 kicks off with the introduction of Mr. Nimbus, a hilarious parody of Aquaman/Namor. While his feud with Rick provides background comedy, the main focus is Morty's encounter with beings from a dimension where time moves differently. Throw in a subplot about Beth and Jerry's threesome contemplation, and you have a standout season premiere.

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

This episode cleverly misleads viewers before taking a wild turn. Morty's desire to control their adventures leads to the creation of a save point button, resulting in time manipulation with devastating consequences. "The Vat of Acid Episode" showcases Rick and Morty's ability to blend sci-fi, humor, and emotional depth.

7. "Pickle Rick" (S3E3)

The episode that spawned countless memes, "Pickle Rick" follows Rick's transformation into a sentient pickle to avoid family therapy. His journey through the sewers and battle with Jaguar exemplify the show's signature wackiness.

6. "Rick Potion No. 9" (S1E6)

This episode marks a turning point for Rick and Morty, 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. The consequences of this episode reverberate through the series.

5. "The Wedding Squanchers" (S2E10)

What begins as a joyful wedding celebration quickly descends into chaos as the Galactic Federation targets Rick. The episode's emotional climax sees Rick sacrificing himself, leaving the Smith family to adapt to life on an alien planet.

4. "Mortynight Run" (S2E2)

"Mortynight Run" pits Rick and Morty against each other over the fate of an alien named Fart. The episode is memorable for its twists, emotional depth, and standout moments like Jermaine Clement's David Bowie-inspired performance and Morty's traumatic arcade game experience.

3. "Rixty Minutes" (S1E8)

An episode centered around watching TV becomes one of the series' best. "Rixty Minutes" introduces the Smiths to Rick's interdimensional cable, featuring bizarre clips and beloved characters like Ants in My Eyes Johnson. It also delves into the emotional lives of Jerry and Beth, and Morty's revelation about "Rick Potion No. 9."

2. "Auto Erotic Assimilation" (S2E3)

This episode reunites Rick with Unity, a hive mind controlling an entire planet. Their reunion spirals into chaos, highlighting why they were a bad match. The episode's tragic ending, with Rick nearly committing suicide, underscores the loneliness and instability beneath his bravado.

1. "Total Rickall" (S2E4)

"Total Rickall" encapsulates what makes Rick and Morty exceptional. An alien parasite invades the Smiths' memories, creating a mix of hilarious and heartbreaking moments. From Hamurai to Sleepy Gary, the episode showcases memorable side characters while delivering a poignant emotional punch, especially with the introduction of Mr. Poopybutthole.

That's our take on the best Rick and Morty episodes to date. Did your favorite make the list? Share your thoughts in the comments below!