Top 15 Must-Watch Rick and Morty Episodes

After seven seasons, Rick and Morty has solidified its status as one of the most celebrated animated sitcoms in television history. Its unique blend of high-concept storytelling, absurd humor, and emotionally charged character development is unparalleled, though fans often endure long waits between seasons. With Season 8 arriving this year after delays due to the 2023 Writers Guild strike, anticipation is high. While we eagerly await the next installment, let's dive into IGN's selection of the top 15 Rick and Morty episodes, and see where fan favorites like "Pickle Rick" and "Rixty Minutes" rank.

The Top 15 Rick and Morty Episodes

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15. "The Ricklantis Mixup" (S3E7)

Image credit: Adult Swim

This episode masterfully subverts expectations. Initially teased 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. It's a poignant look at the less glamorous aspects of their existence, culminating in a surprising and satisfying resolution that sets the stage for future conflicts.

14. "Solaricks" (S6E1)

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Despite Season 6 being uneven, "Solaricks" stands out as a strong premiere. Following the cliffhanger of Season 5, Rick and Morty navigate a universe without portals, leading to a comedic yet insightful adventure. This episode deepens the lore around Rick's rivalry with Rick Prime and cleverly utilizes the Beth/Space Beth dynamic, showcasing unexpected heroics from Jerry.

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

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A hilarious parody of heist movies, this episode features an increasingly absurd plot involving Rick's Heist-o-Tron and its nemesis, Rand-o-Tron. It's a testament to Rick and Morty's ability to escalate a ridiculous premise to new heights, while also bringing back beloved characters like Mr. Poopybutthole and delivering memorable lines.

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

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This episode delves into the mechanics behind Rick's spaceship, revealing a microverse that powers its battery. As Rick clashes with Zeep Zanflorp, the show explores existential themes while maintaining its comedic edge. A subplot involving Summer adds an extra layer of humor and heart.

11. "Rickmurai Jack" (S5E10)

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The Season 5 finale provides crucial insights into Evil Morty's motivations. Starting with a humorous nod to Rick's crow obsession and anime influences, 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)

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This episode highlights the potential of supporting characters, with Beth and Jerry taking center stage. The introduction of Mr. Meeseeks adds both humor and pathos, as the characters navigate their personal struggles, culminating in a memorable and chaotic climax.

9. "Mort Dinner Rick Andre" (S5E1)

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The Season 5 premiere introduces Mr. Nimbus, a hilarious parody of aquatic superheroes. While the feud with Nimbus provides background humor, the episode's main focus is on Morty's encounter with beings from a dimension with accelerated time, alongside a quirky subplot involving Beth and Jerry.

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

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This episode cleverly subverts expectations, starting with a seemingly straightforward premise before exploring the consequences of Morty's time-rewinding button. It's a perfect blend of sci-fi concepts, dark humor, and emotional depth, showcasing the show's versatility.

7. "Pickle Rick" (S3E3)

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A cultural phenomenon, "Pickle Rick" sees Rick transform into a pickle to avoid therapy, leading to an outrageous adventure. It's a prime example of the show's willingness to embrace absurdity, resulting in one of its most iconic and meme-worthy episodes.

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

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A pivotal episode that established Rick and Morty's signature blend of sci-fi, humor, and nihilism. Morty's attempt to win Jessica's affection goes disastrously wrong, leading to a shocking conclusion that has lasting repercussions for the series.

5. "The Wedding Squanchers" (S2E10)

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This season finale starts as a joyous celebration but quickly escalates into chaos as the Galactic Federation targets Rick. The episode's emotional climax, with Rick's self-sacrifice, is one of the series' most powerful moments.

4. "Mortynight Run" (S2E2)

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Rick and Morty clash over the fate of an alien named Fart, leading to a series of twists and emotional moments. The episode is notable for its memorable guest performances and a standout Jerry subplot that explores his alternate realities.

3. "Rixty Minutes" (S1E8)

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An ingenious episode that turns TV-watching into a multiversal adventure, introducing beloved characters and deepening the show's lore. It also offers poignant insights into the Smith family's alternate lives, blending humor with emotional depth.

2. "Auto Erotic Assimilation" (S2E3)

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This episode reunites Rick with Unity, exploring their toxic relationship and the consequences of their reunion. The tragic ending, with Rick on the brink of suicide, is a stark reminder of the character's underlying loneliness and instability.

1. "Total Rickall" (S2E4)

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"Total Rickall" encapsulates everything that makes Rick and Morty exceptional. Its clever premise, involving an alien parasite that creates false memories, leads to a mix of humor and heartbreak. The episode introduces memorable characters and delivers a powerful emotional punch, especially with the revelation about Mr. Poopybutthole.

What's the best Rick and Morty episode of all time?

• Total Rickall
• Auto Erotic Assimilation
• Rixty Minutes
• Mortynight Run
• The Wedding Squanchers
• Rick Potion No. 9
• Pickle Rick
• The Vat of Acid Episode
• Mort Dinner Rick Andre
• Meeseeks and Destroy
• Rickmurai Jack
• The Ricks Must Be Crazy
• One Crew Over the Crewcoo’s Morty
• Solaricks
• The Ricklantis Mixup
• Another one (let us know in the comments!)

And that's our (likely controversial) pick of the best Rick and Morty episodes of all time! Did your favorite Rick and Morty episode make the cut? Let us know in the comments.