Top 15 Must-Watch Rick and Morty Episodes

After seven seasons, Rick and Morty has cemented its status as one of the best animated sitcoms ever created. The show masterfully combines high-concept storytelling, absurd humor, and emotionally raw characterization, making it a standout in the genre. Despite the often lengthy waits between seasons, fans remain eager for more. Season 8, delayed due to the 2023 Writers Guild strike, is set to arrive this year, adding to the anticipation.

As we eagerly await the next installment, 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 explore.

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 a journey to the underwater kingdom of Atlantis, "The Ricklantis Mixup" pivots to focus on the Citadel, showcasing the lives of various Ricks and Mortys. The episode's surprising conclusion ties up a loose end from a previous season, paving the way for a significant showdown 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 dramatic Season 5 finale, Rick and Morty navigate a universe without portals, leading to a humorous misadventure. This episode also deepens the rivalry between Rick and Rick Prime, and cleverly utilizes the Beth/Space Beth dynamic. Jerry's unexpected heroism adds a delightful twist.

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

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Heist movies are entertaining, but Rick and Morty's spoof in this Season 4 episode elevates the genre to new heights of absurdity. The introduction of Rick's Heist-o-Tron and his nemesis Rand-o-Tron, along with the return of Mr. Poopybutthole, results in a memorable and meme-worthy episode.

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

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Ever curious about how Rick powers his versatile spaceship? This episode delves into the microverse that fuels Rick's battery, leading to a mind-bending adventure. Amidst Rick's feud with Zeep Zanflorp, the show reflects on existential themes while delivering a hilarious subplot involving Summer.

11. “Rickmurai Jack” (S5E10)

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The Season 5 finale, "Rickmurai Jack," answers the burning question about Evil Morty's motives. Starting with a comedic take on Rick's crow obsession, the episode shifts focus to Evil Morty's plan to escape Rick's influence. It's a clever twist that highlights Rick's self-destructive tendencies.

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 is memorable, Mr. Meeseeks steals the show with his quest to help others. The contrast between Beth's emotional journey and Jerry's golfing struggles adds depth and humor.

9. “Mort Dinner Rick Andre” (S5E1)

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

8. “The Vat of Acid Episode” (S4E8)

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This episode cleverly subverts expectations, starting with a seemingly straightforward plot before veering into high-concept sci-fi. Morty's attempt to control their adventures leads to the creation of a save point button, resulting in a blend of humor and emotional depth.

7. "Pickle Rick" (S3E3)

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"Pickle Rick" is iconic for its absurdity and meme status. Rick's transformation into a pickle to avoid family therapy leads to a wild adventure involving rats and a showdown with Jaguar. It's a testament to the show's willingness to push boundaries.

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

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This episode marks a turning point for the series, blending sci-fi, humor, and nihilism. Morty's attempt to win Jessica's affection goes disastrously wrong, leading to a shocking conclusion that forces Rick and Morty to abandon their dimension. Its impact reverberates through later seasons.

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. The emotional climax, with Rick's sacrifice, is one of the series' most poignant moments, making it a fitting season finale.

4. "Mortynight Run" (S2E2)

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In this episode, Morty's determination to save Fart leads to a series of twists and emotional confrontations. Standout moments include Jermaine Clement's musical number and Morty's harrowing arcade game experience. Jerry's subplot at the Jerry daycare adds an extra layer of humor.

3. "Rixty Minutes" (S1E8)

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"Rixty Minutes" showcases the show's creativity, with the Smiths exploring interdimensional cable. The episode introduces memorable characters and delves into the characters' alternate lives, balancing humor with emotional depth.

2. "Auto Erotic Assimilation" (S2E3)

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This episode explores Rick's tumultuous relationship with Unity, a hive mind. As their reunion descends into chaos, the episode highlights Rick's loneliness and instability, culminating in a heart-wrenching near-suicide scene.

1. "Total Rickall" (S2E4)

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"Total Rickall" encapsulates everything great about Rick and Morty. The premise of an alien memory parasite invading the Smith household leads to a mix of humor and emotional drama. The episode's one-off characters and poignant ending solidify its place as the top episode.