Top 15 Must-Watch Rick and Morty Episodes

After seven remarkable seasons, Rick and Morty has solidified its status as one of the premier animated sitcoms ever produced. Its unique combination of high-concept storytelling, absurdist humor, and emotionally compelling characters sets it apart, though fans often endure long waits between seasons. Following a shift to an annual release schedule, Season 8 arrives this year after a delay due to the 2023 Writers Guild strike, which lasted five months.

As we eagerly anticipate the next installment of Rick and Morty, let's explore IGN's curated list of the top 15 episodes. Where do iconic episodes like "Pickle Rick" and "Rixty Minutes" rank? Dive in to discover.

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 teased as a journey to Atlantis, "The Ricklantis Mixup" pivots to focus on the Citadel, showcasing the diverse lives of various Ricks and Mortys. The episode's unexpected conclusion brilliantly ties up a previous plot thread, 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 intense Season 5 finale, this episode plunges Rick and Morty into a universe without portals, leading to a comical misadventure. It also enriches the lore around Rick's rivalry with Rick Prime and cleverly utilizes the Beth/Space Beth dynamic. Plus, Jerry's unexpected heroism adds a delightful twist.

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

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Heist movies can be overwhelming, but Rick and Morty's parody in this Season 4 episode is pure entertainment. The introduction of Rick's Heist-o-Tron and its nemesis, Rand-o-Tron, fuels a hilariously complex plot. The return of Mr. Poopybutthole and the episode's iconic line, "I’m Pickle Rick!!!!," have cemented its place in meme culture.

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

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Ever wondered about the power source behind Rick's versatile spaceship? This episode dives into the microverse that fuels it, sparking a feud with Zeep Zanflorp, voiced by Stephen Colbert. As it explores existential themes, it simultaneously delivers a comedic subplot involving Summer's protection by Rick's ship.

11. "Rickmurai Jack" (S5E10)

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The Season 5 finale unravels the mystery of Evil Morty's plans. Starting with Rick's crow obsession climaxing in anime-inspired fight scenes, the episode shifts focus to Evil Morty's quest for freedom from Rick's influence. It's a poignant reminder that Rick's greatest enemy is often himself.

10. "Meeseeks and Destroy" (S1E5)

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This episode showcases the potential of supporting characters like Beth and Jerry. While Morty's adventure selection goes awry, the real star is Mr. Meeseeks, whose mission to help others leads to humorous and poignant moments, particularly in assisting Beth and struggling with Jerry's golf game.

9. "Mort Dinner Rick Andre" (S5E1)

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The Season 5 premiere introduces Mr. Nimbus, a hilarious parody of Aquaman/Namor. The episode cleverly balances the feud between Rick and Nimbus with Morty's encounter with beings from a dimension where time moves differently. A subplot involving Beth and Jerry contemplating a threesome with the King of Atlantis adds to the episode's comedic flair.

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

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This episode starts with a misleading premise, quickly pivoting to explore Morty's frustration and his quest for control over their adventures. The introduction of a save point button leads to time manipulation and a mix of high-concept sci-fi with emotional depth.

7. "Pickle Rick" (S3E3)

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"Pickle Rick" became an instant meme phenomenon. Rick's transformation into a pickle to avoid family therapy leads to a wild adventure involving rats and a showdown with Jaguar. This episode epitomizes the show's penchant for over-the-top absurdity.

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

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As Rick and Morty found its footing, "Rick Potion No. 9" solidified its signature blend of sci-fi, humor, and nihilism. Morty's attempt to win Jessica's affection results in a Cronenberg catastrophe, forcing Rick and Morty to abandon their dimension, an event with lasting repercussions.

5. "The Wedding Squanchers" (S2E10)

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Starting as a celebration, this episode quickly turns chaotic with the Galactic Federation's attack on Rick. The Smith family's struggle with their new alien life and Rick's sacrificial act create one of the series' most emotionally charged moments.

4. "Mortynight Run" (S2E2)

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In this episode, Rick and Morty's disagreement over protecting an alien named Fart leads to unexpected twists. Highlights include Jermaine Clement's David Bowie-inspired performance and Morty's traumatic experience with the arcade game Roy: A Life Well Lived. Jerry's subplot at a Jerry daycare is particularly memorable.

3. "Rixty Minutes" (S1E8)

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An entire episode centered around watching interdimensional TV becomes a showcase of the show's creativity. From introducing beloved characters like Ants in My Eyes Johnson to exploring the Smiths' reactions to alternate realities, this episode balances humor with poignant moments, especially referencing "Rick Potion No. 9."

2. "Auto Erotic Assimilation" (S2E3)

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Reuniting Rick with his ex-lover Unity, this episode delves into the destructive nature of their relationship. As Rick and Unity's world spirals into chaos, the episode culminates in a heart-wrenching near-suicide attempt by Rick, underscoring his deep-seated loneliness.

1. "Total Rickall" (S2E4)

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"Total Rickall" encapsulates everything fans love about Rick and Morty. An alien parasite invades the Smiths' memories, leading to a mix of humor and emotional drama. The episode's unique characters and the devastating impact on the family highlight the show's ability to blend comedy with profound storytelling.

And that concludes our selection of the best Rick and Morty episodes. Did your favorite episode make the list? Share your thoughts in the comments below.