After seven seasons, Rick and Morty has firmly established itself as one of the premier animated sitcoms, captivating audiences with its unique blend of high-concept storytelling, outlandish humor, and deeply emotional character development. Fans may endure long waits between seasons, but the payoff is always worth it. Although the show typically adheres to an annual release schedule, Season 8 faced delays due to the 2023 Writers Guild strike, extending the anticipation for its arrival this year.

As we eagerly await the next installment, let's dive into IGN's selection of the top 15 Rick and Morty episodes, exploring where iconic episodes like "Pickle Rick" and "Rixty Minutes" rank in this prestigious lineup.

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 subverts expectations. Initially teased as an adventure to the mythical Atlantis, "The Ricklantis Mixup" shifts focus to the Citadel, exploring the lives of various Ricks and Mortys. It offers a poignant look at the less glamorous sides of their existence, culminating in a surprising twist that ties up a loose end from a previous episode, setting the stage for a significant confrontation in Season 5.

14. "Solaricks" (S6E1)

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While Season 6 might not be the strongest overall, it kicks off with a bang in "Solaricks." Picking up where the dramatic Season 5 finale left off, this episode sees Rick and Morty navigating a portal-less universe. Their misadventures lead to a comedic yet touching exploration of the multiverse's displaced characters, while deepening the lore around Rick's nemesis, Rick Prime, and the Beth/Space Beth dynamic. It also showcases an unexpected heroic side to Jerry.

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

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Heist movies get a hilarious twist in this Season 4 episode, where Rick's Heist-o-Tron and its rival, Rand-o-Tron, lead to an increasingly absurd plot. The episode cleverly builds on its premise, delivering laughs and memorable moments, including the return of fan-favorite Mr. Poopybutthole and the iconic line, "I’m Pickle Rick!!!!"

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

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This episode delves into the mechanics behind Rick's spaceship, revealing a microverse powering its battery. As Rick clashes with Zeep Zanflorp, the series ponders existential themes while providing a humorous subplot involving Summer's protection by the ship. It's a testament to the show's ability to blend complex ideas with comedy.

11. "Rickmurai Jack" (S5E10)

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The Season 5 finale addresses the mystery of Evil Morty's motives. Beginning with a humorous nod to Rick's crow obsession and anime influences, the episode shifts focus to Evil Morty's quest for freedom from Rick's influence. It's a clever subversion of expectations, highlighting Rick's self-destructive tendencies.

10. "Meeseeks and Destroy" (S1E5)

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This episode showcases the potential of supporting characters, with Beth and Jerry stealing the show. While Morty's adventure is memorable, Mr. Meeseeks' struggle to help Jerry with his golf game provides the episode's comedic highlight, emphasizing the absurdity and poignancy of the characters' lives.

9. "Mort Dinner Rick Andre" (S5E1)

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Introducing Mr. Nimbus, a hilarious parody of aquatic superheroes, this Season 5 premiere also explores Morty's encounter with beings from a faster-paced dimension. The episode balances humor with character development, including a subplot involving Beth and Jerry's contemplation of a threesome with the King of Atlantis.

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

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This episode cleverly misleads viewers before diving into Morty's struggle with a time-rewind button. It blends sci-fi concepts with humor and emotional depth, culminating in a heart-wrenching conclusion that showcases the show's storytelling prowess.

7. "Pickle Rick" (S3E3)

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A cultural phenomenon, "Pickle Rick" sees Rick transform into a pickle to avoid therapy, leading to a wild adventure. The episode's absurdity and memorable moments, like Rick's battle with Jaguar, exemplify Rick and Morty's unique brand of humor.

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

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This episode marks a turning point for the series, balancing sci-fi, humor, and nihilism. Morty's attempt to win Jessica's love goes disastrously wrong, leading to a shocking conclusion that forces Rick and Morty to abandon their dimension, setting the tone for future episodes.

5. "The Wedding Squanchers" (S2E10)

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What begins as a joyous celebration quickly turns chaotic in this Season 2 finale. As the Galactic Federation targets Rick, the episode delivers an emotionally charged narrative, culminating in Rick's self-sacrifice, leaving a lasting impact on the series.

4. "Mortynight Run" (S2E2)

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This episode sees Rick and Morty clash over the fate of an alien named Fart, featuring twists, emotional depth, and standout moments like Jermaine Clement's musical number. The Jerry subplot at the Jerry daycare adds a layer of humor and pathos.

3. "Rixty Minutes" (S1E8)

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An episode centered around watching TV becomes a showcase for the show's creativity. Introducing the interdimensional cable box, "Rixty Minutes" offers a barrage of bizarre clips and new characters while exploring the emotional struggles of the Smith family.

2. "Auto Erotic Assimilation" (S2E3)

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This episode reunites Rick with his ex-lover Unity, delving into themes of love and self-destruction. The tragic ending, with Rick on the brink of suicide, underscores the series' ability to blend humor with profound emotional narratives.

1. "Total Rickall" (S2E4)

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Topping the list, "Total Rickall" encapsulates the essence of Rick and Morty. An alien parasite invades the Smiths' memories, introducing a host of memorable characters while delivering both humor and emotional depth. The episode's conclusion, involving Mr. Poopybutthole, leaves a lasting impact.

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.