After seven seasons, "Rick and Morty" has solidified its status as one of the best animated sitcoms in history. Its unique mix of high-concept storytelling, absurd humor, and emotionally raw characterization is unparalleled, even if fans often face long waits between seasons. The show shifted to an annual release schedule, but Season 8's arrival this year was delayed due to the 2023 five-month Writers Guild strike.

As we eagerly await the next installment of "Rick and Morty," let's explore IGN's selection of the top episodes. Where do classics like "Pickle Rick" and "Rixty Minutes" rank? Dive in to discover their positions.

The Top 15 Rick and Morty Episodes

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15. "The Ricklantis Mixup" (S3E7)

Image credit: Adult SwimThis Season 3 episode masterfully defies expectations. Initially billed as a journey to Atlantis, "The Ricklantis Mixup" instead focuses on the Citadel, offering a deep dive into the lives of various Ricks and Mortys. The unexpected ending ties up a loose end from a previous season and sets the stage for a significant confrontation in Season 5.

14. "Solaricks" (S6E1)

Image credit: Adult SwimDespite Season 6 being less robust overall, its premiere episode, "Solaricks," stands out. Following the dramatic Season 5 finale, this episode sees Rick and Morty navigating a universe without portals, leading to a series of hilarious misadventures and shedding light on Rick's rivalry with Rick Prime. It also cleverly utilizes the Beth/Space Beth dynamic, with Jerry unexpectedly shining as a hero.

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

Image credit: Adult SwimHeist movies can be convoluted, but "Rick and Morty" turns this genre on its head with a delightfully complex plot. In this Season 4 episode, Rick introduces the Heist-o-Tron and faces off against Rand-o-Tron. The episode's absurdity escalates brilliantly, and it brings back the beloved Mr. Poopybutthole, along with the iconic line, "I’m Pickle Rick!!!!"

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

Image credit: Adult SwimEver wondered about the power source of Rick's versatile spaceship? This episode delves into the microverse that fuels it, leading to a mind-bending adventure. As Rick clashes with Zeep Zanflorp, the show explores existential themes while providing a humorous subplot involving Summer's protection by Rick's ship.

11. “Rickmurai Jack” (S5E10)

Image credit: Adult SwimThe Season 5 finale answers the burning question about Evil Morty's motives. Starting with Rick's crow obsession and anime-inspired fight scenes, the episode shifts focus to Evil Morty's plan to escape Rick's influence. It's a refreshing twist, showcasing Rick as his own worst enemy.

10. "Meeseeks and Destroy" (S1E5)

Image credit: Adult SwimThis episode highlights the potential of supporting characters like Beth and Jerry. While Morty's adventure is memorable, Mr. Meeseeks steals the show, struggling to help Beth and Jerry achieve their goals, with Jerry's golfing woes providing comic relief.

9. “Mort Dinner Rick Andre” (S5E1)

Image credit: Adult SwimThe Season 5 premiere introduces Mr. Nimbus, a hilarious parody of Aquaman/Namor. While the feud with Rick is entertaining, the episode's focus on Morty's encounter with beings from a faster-moving dimension, combined with Beth and Jerry's humorous subplot, makes it a standout.

8. “The Vat of Acid Episode” (S4E8)

Image credit: Adult SwimThis episode cleverly misleads viewers before taking a wild turn. Morty's desire to control their adventures leads to the creation of a time-rewind button, resulting in both comedic and emotionally intense moments, showcasing the show's ability to blend sci-fi with humor and drama.

7. "Pickle Rick" (S3E3)

Image credit: Adult SwimThe episode that spawned countless memes, "Pickle Rick" sees Rick transform into a pickle to avoid family therapy, leading to a bizarre and action-packed adventure. It's a testament to the show's willingness to embrace the absurd.

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

Image credit: Adult Swim"Rick Potion No. 9" marks a turning point for the series, blending high-concept sci-fi with dark humor and nihilism. Morty's attempt to win Jessica's love goes disastrously wrong, forcing Rick and Morty to abandon their dimension, a decision that continues to impact 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's emotional climax, with Rick's sacrifice, is one of the series' most poignant moments.

4. "Mortynight Run" (S2E2)

Image credit: Adult SwimIn "Mortynight Run," Morty's mission to save an alien named Fart leads to unexpected twists and emotional depth. The episode is enriched by Jermaine Clement's musical number and a memorable Jerry subplot at a Jerry-only daycare.

3. "Rixty Minutes" (S1E8)

Image credit: Adult Swim"Rixty Minutes" turns TV-watching into a multiverse adventure, introducing iconic characters like Ants in My Eyes Johnson. It also delves into the Smiths' alternate lives, adding depth to the humor.

2. "Auto Erotic Assimilation" (S2E3)

Image credit: Adult SwimThis episode explores Rick's tumultuous relationship with Unity, a hive mind. As their reunion spirals into chaos, the episode offers a tragic look at Rick's loneliness, culminating in a near-suicide attempt.

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. The episode balances humor with emotional depth, introducing memorable characters and culminating in a poignant ending.