Top 15 Must-Watch Rick and Morty Episodes

After seven seasons, Rick and Morty has solidified its place as one of the most acclaimed animated sitcoms ever created. The show's unique mix of high-concept storytelling, absurd humor, and deeply emotional character development is unparalleled, though fans often find themselves eagerly waiting months—or even years—between new seasons.

Although Rick and Morty had shifted to an annual release schedule, Season 8's arrival this year was delayed due to the 2023 Writers Guild strike, which lasted five months. As we anticipate the next installment, let's dive into IGN's selection of the top 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)

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This Season 3 episode masterfully defies expectations. Initially set up as an adventure in the underwater kingdom of Atlantis, "The Ricklantis Mixup" instead focuses on the Citadel, exploring the lives of other Ricks and Mortys who don't enjoy the same adventurous and hedonistic lifestyles. The episode's surprising conclusion ties up a loose thread from a previous episode, setting the stage for a major confrontation in Season 5.

14. "Solaricks" (S6E1)

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While Season 6 may not be Rick and Morty's strongest, it kicks off with an exceptional premiere in "Solaricks." Following the dramatic Season 5 finale, Rick and Morty navigate a universe without portals, leading to a humorous misadventure where displaced beings are returned to their home dimensions. This episode also deepens the rivalry between Rick and Rick Prime and cleverly uses the Beth/Space Beth dynamic. Plus, it showcases Jerry's unexpected badassery.

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

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Heist movies often have complex plots, but Rick and Morty's parody takes it to another level. "One Crew Over the Crewcoo’s Morty" features an increasingly absurd plot revolving around Rick's Heist-o-Tron and its nemesis, Rand-o-Tron. The episode successfully builds on its ridiculous premise and brings back the beloved character Mr. Poopybutthole, delivering one of the most meme-worthy lines since "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 fuels it, as Rick clashes with Zeep Zanflorp, voiced by Stephen Colbert. The series reflects on the futility of existence and the sacrifices enabling Rick's dimension-hopping adventures, all while delivering a hilarious subplot involving Summer's protection by the ship.

11. "Rickmurai Jack" (S5E10)

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Following the revelations about Birdperson's fate in "Rickternal Friendshine of the Spotless Mort," the Season 5 finale, "Rickmurai Jack," addresses the central mystery of Evil Morty's plans. The episode starts with a humorous nod to Rick's crow obsession and anime-inspired action, then shifts focus to Evil Morty's desire to escape Rick's influence, highlighting Rick's self-destructive tendencies.

10. "Meeseeks and Destroy" (S1E5)

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This episode showcased how supporting characters like Beth and Jerry could steal the spotlight. While Morty's adventure is memorable, Mr. Meeseeks steals the show with his quest to help others achieve their goals, especially Beth's emotional fulfillment and Jerry's golf game improvement.

9. "Mort Dinner Rick Andre" (S5E1)

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Season 5's premiere introduces Mr. Nimbus, a hilarious parody of Aquaman/Namor, who becomes Rick's nemesis. The episode cleverly balances the feud with a subplot involving Morty's encounter with beings from a dimension where time moves faster, and a comedic exploration of Beth and Jerry's marital dynamics.

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

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This episode starts with a misleading premise before taking a wild turn. Morty's frustration leads to the creation of a save point button, giving him the power to rewind time. However, this power soon spirals out of control, showcasing Rick and Morty's ability to blend high-concept sci-fi with humor and emotional depth.

7. "Pickle Rick" (S3E3)

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The episode that sparked countless memes, "Pickle Rick," follows Rick's bizarre transformation into a pickle to avoid family therapy. From rat battles to a showdown with Jaguar, this episode epitomizes Rick and Morty's wacky and over-the-top style.

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

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In its early days, Rick and Morty found its voice with "Rick Potion No. 9." This episode blends sci-fi, humor, and nihilism as Morty's attempt to win Jessica's love goes disastrously wrong, forcing Rick and Morty to abandon their dimension. The repercussions of this episode continue to affect the characters.

5. "The Wedding Squanchers" (S2E10)

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Starting as a lighthearted celebration, "The Wedding Squanchers" quickly escalates into chaos as the Galactic Federation targets Rick. With Earth occupied and the Smith family adjusting to alien life, Rick's self-sacrifice marks one of the series' most emotionally charged moments.

4. "Mortynight Run" (S2E2)

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In "Mortynight Run," Rick and Morty clash over the fate of an alien named Fart. The episode is packed with twists, emotional depth, and memorable moments, including Jermaine Clement's David Bowie-inspired musical number and Morty's harrowing arcade game experience. Jerry's subplot at a Jerry-only daycare adds to the episode's charm.

3. "Rixty Minutes" (S1E8)

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An entire episode centered around watching TV becomes one of Rick and Morty's best. The Smiths explore Rick's interdimensional cable, introducing fan-favorite characters and showcasing the depth of Jerry and Beth's relationship, as well as the aftermath of "Rick Potion No. 9."

2. "Auto Erotic Assimilation" (S2E3)

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This episode reunites Rick with his ex-lover Unity, a hive mind controlling an entire planet. Their hedonistic reunion underscores their toxic relationship, culminating in a tragic and emotionally intense conclusion that reveals Rick's profound loneliness.

1. "Total Rickall" (S2E4)

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"Total Rickall" encapsulates the essence of Rick and Morty with its clever premise of an alien memory parasite invading the Smith household. From humorous side characters to a heart-wrenching emotional climax, this episode showcases the show's ability to blend humor and drama seamlessly.