Top 15 Rick and Morty Episodes Ranked

After seven remarkable seasons, "Rick and Morty" has solidified its status as one of the finest animated sitcoms ever created. Its unique blend of high-concept storytelling, outlandish humor, and deeply emotional character development sets it apart, even though fans often endure long waits between seasons. Season 8, delayed due to the 2023 five-month Writers Guild strike, is eagerly anticipated this year.

As we count down the days until the next adventure, 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 find out.

The Top 15 Rick and Morty Episodes

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15. "The Ricklantis Mixup" (S3E7)

This Season 3 episode masterfully defies expectations. Initially billed as an adventure in Atlantis, it instead focuses on the Citadel, showcasing the struggles of various Ricks and Mortys. The unexpected ending ties up a previous loose thread brilliantly, paving the way for a significant confrontation in Season 5.

14. "Solaricks" (S6E1)

Although Season 6 might not be the strongest, its premiere episode, "Solaricks," is exceptional. It picks up after the dramatic Season 5 finale, with Rick and Morty navigating a universe without portals. This leads to a humorous misadventure where displaced characters are returned to their dimensions. The episode also deepens the rivalry between Rick and Rick Prime and cleverly utilizes the Beth/Space Beth dynamic. Plus, it showcases Jerry's unexpected badassery.

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

Heist movies are fun, but "Rick and Morty" takes it to another level. This Season 4 gem features an increasingly absurd plot centered around Rick's Heist-o-Tron and his nemesis, Rand-o-Tron. The episode not only delivers on its ridiculous premise but also brings back the beloved Mr. Poopybutthole and gives us the iconic line, "I'm Pickle Rick!!!!"

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

Ever wondered how Rick powers his spaceship? This episode delves into the microverse that fuels it, leading to a mind-bending journey. As Rick clashes with Zeep Zanflorp (voiced by Stephen Colbert), the series explores existential themes while delivering a hilarious subplot involving Summer and Rick's ship.

11. "Rickmurai Jack" (S5E10)

The Season 5 finale answers the burning question about Evil Morty's intentions. Starting with Rick's crow obsession reaching a comical peak, the episode shifts focus to Evil Morty's plan to escape Rick's influence. It's a clever twist that showcases Rick's self-destructive tendencies.

10. "Meeseeks and Destroy" (S1E5)

This episode highlights the potential of supporting characters like Beth and Jerry. While Morty's adventure is memorable, Mr. Meeseeks steals the show, trying to help Beth and Jerry achieve their goals with varying success. It's a testament to the show's ability to make even minor characters shine.

9. "Mort Dinner Rick Andre" (S5E1)

Introducing Mr. Nimbus, a hilarious parody of Aquaman/Namor, this episode kicks off Season 5 with a bang. While the feud between Rick and Mr. Nimbus plays out in the background, the focus is on Morty's encounter with beings from a faster-moving dimension. Add in Beth and Jerry's humorous contemplation of a threesome with the King of Atlantis, and you have a standout premiere.

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

This episode starts with a deceptive premise and quickly shifts gears, showcasing Rick and Morty's ability to blend high-concept sci-fi with biting humor and emotional depth. Morty's use of a save point button leads to unexpected consequences, delivering a poignant lesson on the nature of mistakes and heartbreak.

7. "Pickle Rick" (S3E3)

The episode that sparked countless memes, "Pickle Rick" sees Rick transform into a pickle to avoid family therapy. What follows is a wild and over-the-top adventure that showcases the show's penchant for absurdity.

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

This episode marks a turning point for the series, finding its voice with a mix of high-concept sci-fi, absurd humor, and nihilism. Morty's attempt to win Jessica's love goes disastrously wrong, leading to a shocking conclusion that has lasting effects on the characters.

5. "The Wedding Squanchers" (S2E10)

What begins as a joyous celebration quickly turns into chaos as the Galactic Federation targets Rick. The episode's emotional climax sees Rick sacrificing himself, marking one of the series' most impactful moments.

4. "Mortynight Run" (S2E2)

Rick and Morty clash over protecting a rogue alien named Fart. The episode is packed with twists, emotional depth, and memorable details, including Jerry's hilarious encounters at a Jerry-only daycare.

3. "Rixty Minutes" (S1E8)

An entire episode dedicated to watching TV becomes one of the series' best. The Smiths explore Rick's interdimensional cable box, introducing beloved characters and providing deep insights into their alternate lives.

2. "Auto Erotic Assimilation" (S2E3)

This episode reunites Rick with Unity, a hive mind controlling an entire planet. Their reunion spirals into excess, revealing why they were a toxic match. The episode's tragic ending highlights Rick's deep-seated loneliness and instability.

1. "Total Rickall" (S2E4)

"Total Rickall" encapsulates everything that makes "Rick and Morty" great. An alien parasite invades the Smiths' memories, leading to a mix of humor and emotional drama. The episode introduces memorable characters and ends with a poignant twist, making it a standout.

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.