Top 15 Must-Watch Rick and Morty Episodes

After seven seasons, *Rick and Morty* has solidified its place as one of the greatest animated sitcoms ever created. The show's unique mix of high-concept storytelling, absurd humor, and emotionally gripping character development sets it apart, even if fans often endure long waits between new episodes. While the series had settled into an annual release schedule, Season 8 faced a delay due to the 2023 five-month Writers Guild strike, making fans wait a bit longer 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. Where do classics like "Pickle Rick" and "Rixty Minutes" rank? Let's find out.

The Top 15 Rick and Morty Episodes

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15. "The Ricklantis Mixup" (S3E7)

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This Season 3 episode masterfully defies expectations. Initially billed as an adventure to the underwater kingdom of Atlantis, "The Ricklantis Mixup" shifts focus to the Citadel, exploring the lives of various Ricks and Mortys who don't lead the typical life of adventure. The episode's surprising conclusion ties up a loose end from a previous season, 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, it starts with a bang in "Solaricks." Following the dramatic Season 5 finale, Rick and Morty navigate a universe without portals, leading to a humorous misadventure that sends displaced characters back to their dimensions. This episode deepens the rivalry between Rick and Rick Prime and cleverly utilizes the Beth/Space Beth dynamic, while also showcasing Jerry's unexpected bravery.

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

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Heist movies can be convoluted, but Rick and Morty turns this trope on its head with a hilariously complex plot. This Season 4 episode introduces Rick's Heist-o-Tron and his nemesis, Rand-o-Tron, crafting a ridiculous yet brilliant heist scenario. The episode also features the return of fan-favorite Mr. Poopybutthole and delivers the internet's latest meme sensation: "I’m Pickle Rick!!!!"

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

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Ever wondered 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 show explores existential themes and the sacrifices behind Rick's adventures. Meanwhile, a hilarious subplot shows Rick's ship protecting Summer.

11. "Rickmurai Jack" (S5E10)

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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 intentions. "Rickmurai Jack" starts with Rick's crow obsession culminating in a Vampire Hunter D-style anime battle. Evil Morty's true plan unfolds, not as a battle for the multiverse, but as a 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 Beth and Jerry, who steal the spotlight. While Morty's adventure choice is memorable, the real star is Mr. Meeseeks, whose existence is dedicated to helping others achieve their goals. Beth's quest for emotional fulfillment contrasts sharply with Jerry's golfing fiasco, providing both humor and depth.

9. "Mort Dinner Rick Andre" (S5E1)

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Season 5's premiere introduces Mr. Nimbus, a hilarious parody of Aquaman and Namor. While the feud between Rick and Mr. Nimbus adds background humor, the episode focuses on Morty's encounter with beings from a dimension where time moves faster. The subplot involving Beth, Jerry, and the King of Atlantis contemplating a threesome adds to the episode's comedic and chaotic charm.

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

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This episode begins with a misleading premise before taking a wildly funny turn. Morty's frustration over not controlling their adventures leads to the creation of a save point button, allowing him to rewind time. However, this power quickly spirals out of control, blending high-concept sci-fi with humor and emotional twists, culminating in Morty's heartbreaking realization.

7. "Pickle Rick" (S3E3)

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"Pickle Rick" became an instant meme sensation. Rick turns himself into a pickle to avoid family therapy, leading to a bizarre journey involving rats and a showdown with Jaguar. This episode embodies the show's wackiest and most over-the-top moments, showcasing Rick's extreme measures to dodge his problems.

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

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In its early days, Rick and Morty found its voice in "Rick Potion No. 9." The episode strikes a perfect balance of sci-fi, humor, and nihilism. Morty's attempt to make Jessica fall in love with him goes disastrously wrong, leading to a shocking ending where Rick and Morty must abandon their dimension, leaving lasting effects on the series.

5. "The Wedding Squanchers" (S2E10)

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"The Wedding Squanchers" starts with Birdperson and Tammy's celebration but quickly escalates into chaos with the Galactic Federation's attack on Rick. As Earth falls under occupation, the Smith family struggles to adapt to their new alien home, culminating in Rick's emotional sacrifice, making it one of the series' most impactful moments.

4. "Mortynight Run" (S2E2)

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"Mortynight Run" pits Rick and Morty against each other over the fate of an alien named Fart. The episode is filled with twists, emotional depth, and memorable moments, from Jermaine Clement's David Bowie-inspired musical number to Morty's harrowing experience with the Roy: A Life Well Lived arcade game. It also features one of the best Jerry subplots, showcasing his interactions with alternate versions of himself.

3. "Rixty Minutes" (S1E8)

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Only Rick and Morty could turn an episode of TV-watching into one of its best. The Smiths explore Rick's interdimensional cable box, introducing a plethora of bizarre characters and clips. The episode balances humor with depth as Jerry and Beth confront alternate life choices, and Morty reveals the aftermath of "Rick Potion No. 9" to Summer.

2. "Auto Erotic Assimilation" (S2E3)

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This episode features a clever storyline as Rick reunites with his ex-lover Unity, a hive mind controlling an entire world. Their reunion spirals into excess, highlighting their toxic relationship. The episode's tragic ending sees Rick nearly take his own life, offering a poignant glimpse into his loneliness and instability.

1. "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 a plethora of memorable side characters. The episode transitions from humor to emotional drama as the family's memories are manipulated, culminating in the heart-wrenching fate of Mr. Poopybutthole.