After seven seasons, Rick and Morty has solidified its status as one of the most acclaimed animated sitcoms ever. The show's unique mix of high-concept storytelling, absurd humor, and emotionally charged characters is unparalleled, though fans often endure long waits between seasons. Despite shifting to an annual release schedule, Season 8 faced delays due to the 2023 Writers Guild strike, extending the wait for new adventures.

As we eagerly anticipate the next installment of Rick and Morty, let's dive into IGN's selection of the top episodes. How 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)

Image credit: Adult SwimThis Season 3 episode masterfully subverts expectations. Initially teased as a journey to the underwater kingdom of Atlantis, "The Ricklantis Mixup" pivots to focus on the Citadel, showcasing the diverse lives of various Ricks and Mortys. The episode's surprising conclusion ties up a previous loose end brilliantly, paving the way for a significant showdown in Season 5.

14. "Solaricks" (S6E1)

Image credit: Adult SwimWhile Season 6 may not be the strongest, it kicks off with a bang in "Solaricks." Following the intense Season 5 finale, Rick and Morty navigate a universe without portals, leading to a humorous misadventure. The episode deepens the lore around Rick's rivalry with Rick Prime and cleverly uses the Beth/Space Beth dynamic. Plus, it highlights Jerry's unexpected heroism.

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

Image credit: Adult SwimHeist movies can be convoluted, but Rick and Morty turns this on its head with a hilariously complex plot in this Season 4 episode. Introducing Rick's Heist-o-Tron and his nemesis Rand-o-Tron, the episode builds upon its absurd premise brilliantly. It also brings back the beloved Mr. Poopybutthole and delivers a memorable meme-worthy line.

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

Image credit: Adult SwimEver curious about the power source of Rick's versatile spaceship? This episode delves into the microverse powering Rick's battery, sparking a feud with Zeep Zanflorp, voiced by Stephen Colbert. Amidst existential musings, the episode also features a comedic subplot involving Summer's protection by Rick's ship.

11. "Rickmurai Jack" (S5E10)

Image credit: Adult SwimFollowing the revelations about Birdperson, the Season 5 finale answers the burning question about Evil Morty's motives. "Rickmurai Jack" starts with a humorous nod to Rick's crow obsession before shifting focus to Evil Morty's quest for freedom from Rick's influence, showcasing Rick's self-destructive nature.

10. "Meeseeks and Destroy" (S1E5)

Image credit: Adult SwimThis episode highlights the potential of supporting characters like Beth and Jerry. While Morty's adventure goes awry, the real star is Mr. Meeseeks, whose efforts to help Beth and Jerry lead to both comedic and poignant moments.

9. "Mort Dinner Rick Andre" (S5E1)

Image credit: Adult SwimSeason 5 introduces Mr. Nimbus, a hilarious parody of aquatic superheroes, in this strong season opener. The episode cleverly balances the feud with Mr. Nimbus and Morty's encounter with beings from a dimension where time moves differently, all while adding a humorous subplot involving Beth and Jerry.

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

Image credit: Adult SwimThis episode starts with a misleading premise before taking a wild and hilarious turn. Morty's desire to control their adventures leads to a time-rewinding button, resulting in both comedic and emotionally wrenching moments, showcasing the show's ability to blend sci-fi with humor and drama.

7. "Pickle Rick" (S3E3)

Image credit: Adult SwimAn episode that became a cultural phenomenon, "Pickle Rick" sees Rick turn himself into a pickle to avoid family therapy, leading to a series of absurd and over-the-top adventures. It's a testament to the show's willingness to push boundaries.

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

Image credit: Adult SwimA pivotal episode that found the show's voice, "Rick Potion No. 9" blends high-concept sci-fi with dark humor and nihilism. Morty's attempt to win Jessica's affection leads to catastrophic consequences, forcing Rick and Morty to abandon their dimension, an impact felt throughout the series.

5. "The Wedding Squanchers" (S2E10)

Image credit: Adult SwimStarting as a lighthearted wedding, "The Wedding Squanchers" quickly escalates into chaos as the Galactic Federation targets Rick. The episode culminates in a powerful and emotional sacrifice by Rick, marking a dramatic end to the season.

4. "Mortynight Run" (S2E2)

Image credit: Adult SwimIn this episode, Rick and Morty clash over the fate of an alien named Fart, leading to unexpected twists and emotional moments. Highlights include Jermaine Clement's musical number and a memorable Jerry subplot at a Jerry-only daycare.

3. "Rixty Minutes" (S1E8)

Image credit: Adult SwimAn episode centered around watching TV becomes one of the series' best, introducing the interdimensional cable box and a host of bizarre characters. It also delves into the personal struggles of the Smith family, adding depth to the humor.

2. "Auto Erotic Assimilation" (S2E3)

Image credit: Adult SwimThis episode explores Rick's reunion with his ex-lover Unity, leading to a hedonistic spiral that reveals the toxic nature of their relationship. The tragic ending underscores Rick's loneliness and instability beneath his bravado.

1. "Total Rickall" (S2E4)

Image credit: Adult Swim"Total Rickall" encapsulates the essence of Rick and Morty with its clever premise of memory-altering parasites and a memorable cast of one-off characters. The episode seamlessly blends humor with emotional depth, culminating in a poignant twist.

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 episode make the cut? Let us know in the comments.