After seven seasons, *Rick and Morty* has solidified its place as one of the most celebrated animated sitcoms ever. The show's unique mix of high-concept storytelling, absurd humor, and emotionally compelling characters makes it stand out, even if fans have to endure long waits between seasons. While *Rick and Morty* typically follows an annual release schedule, Season 8 is set to arrive this year after a longer-than-usual delay due to the 2023 five-month Writers Guild strike.

As we eagerly await the next installment, let's dive into IGN's selection of the top 15 *Rick and Morty* episodes. Where do fan favorites like "Pickle Rick" and "Rixty Minutes" rank? Keep reading to find out.

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 underwater kingdom of Atlantis, "The Ricklantis Mixup" surprisingly shifts focus to the Citadel, exploring the lives of various Ricks and Mortys who don't lead the adventurous lives we're used to. The episode wraps up with a stunning twist that ties back to a previous plot point, setting the stage for a significant showdown in Season 5.

14. "Solaricks" (S6E1)

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While Season 6 may not be the strongest overall, it kicks off with one of the series' most compelling premieres. "Solaricks" continues from the dramatic Season 5 finale, following Rick and Morty as they navigate a universe without portals. The episode combines humor with the chaos of returning displaced characters to their home dimensions and deepens the rivalry between Rick and Rick Prime. It also showcases the intriguing dynamics between Beth and Space Beth, while Jerry surprisingly steps into the spotlight as a hero.

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

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Heist movies can be overwhelming with their complex plots and endless twists, but Rick and Morty turns this genre on its head in this Season 4 episode. The episode features a delightfully convoluted plot involving Rick's Heist-o-Tron and its nemesis, Rand-o-Tron, making for a hilarious and escalating series of events. It also marks the return of the beloved Mr. Poopybutthole and delivers one of the internet's most iconic lines since "I'm Pickle Rick!"

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

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Ever wondered about the power source of Rick's versatile spaceship? "The Ricks Must Be Crazy" delves into this mystery, taking Rick and Morty on a mind-bending journey through the microverse that powers Rick's battery. Amidst Rick's rivalry with Zeep Zanflorp (voiced by Stephen Colbert), the episode ponders existential themes while providing a humorous subplot featuring Summer's protection by the ship.

11. “Rickmurai Jack” (S5E10)

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After "Rickternal Friendshine of the Spotless Mort" addressed Birdperson's fate, the Season 5 finale, "Rickmurai Jack," answers the pressing question about Evil Morty's intentions. The episode begins with a humorous nod to Rick's crow obsession, morphing into a showcase of anime-inspired fight scenes. It then pivots to reveal Evil Morty's true aim: to escape Rick's influence entirely, offering a fresh perspective on the character's motivations.

10. "Meeseeks and Destroy" (S1E5)

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This episode marks a turning point, proving that Beth and Jerry can steal the spotlight from Rick and Morty. While Morty's adventure-seeking goes awry, Mr. Meeseeks steals the show. These creatures, designed to help others achieve their goals, face challenges in assisting Beth and Jerry with their personal aspirations, with Jerry's golf game providing much of the humor.

9. “Mort Dinner Rick Andre” (S5E1)

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Season 5 introduces Mr. Nimbus, Rick's flamboyant nemesis and a parody of Aquaman and Namor. "Mort Dinner Rick Andre" skillfully balances this new character's antics with Morty's encounter with beings from a dimension where time moves differently. Add a subplot about Beth and Jerry considering a threesome with the King of Atlantis, and you get a standout season opener.

8. “The Vat of Acid Episode” (S4E8)

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This episode cleverly misleads viewers with its title and opening, only to veer into a story about Morty's desire for control over their adventures. With the introduction of a time-rewinding save point button, the episode showcases Rick and Morty's blend of high-concept sci-fi and emotional storytelling, culminating in a heart-wrenching twist for Morty.

7. "Pickle Rick" (S3E3)

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"Pickle Rick" is the episode that sparked countless memes. Rick's transformation into a sentient pickle to avoid family therapy leads to a wild adventure involving rat battles and a showdown with Jaguar. It's a testament to the show's ability to push boundaries with its wacky and over-the-top narrative.

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

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Early Rick and Morty episodes show the series finding its footing, and "Rick Potion No. 9" marks a significant milestone. Morty's attempt to win Jessica's affection with a love potion backfires spectacularly, leading to a Cronenberg-infested dimension. This episode sets the tone for the series' blend of sci-fi, humor, and nihilism, with lasting impacts felt in subsequent seasons.

5. "The Wedding Squanchers" (S2E10)

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Starting as a lighthearted wedding celebration for Birdperson and Tammy, "The Wedding Squanchers" quickly escalates into chaos with the Galactic Federation's attack on Rick. As Earth falls under occupation, the Smith family struggles to adapt to their new alien home, leading to Rick's sacrificial act—one of the series' most emotionally charged moments.

4. "Mortynight Run" (S2E2)

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"Mortynight Run" sees Rick and Morty clash over the fate of an alien named Fart (voiced by Jermaine Clement). The episode is packed with twists, emotional depth, and standout moments, from Clement's David Bowie-inspired musical number to Morty's harrowing experience with the arcade game Roy: A Life Well Lived. It also features a hilarious Jerry subplot at a Jerry-only daycare.

3. "Rixty Minutes" (S1E8)

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"Rixty Minutes" turns the simple act of watching TV into one of the show's best episodes. The Smiths explore the multiverse through Rick's interdimensional cable box, encountering bizarre TV shows and characters like Ants in My Eyes Johnson and Gazorpazorpfield. The episode also offers poignant insights into the alternate lives of Jerry and Beth, and Morty's revelation about "Rick Potion No. 9" adds emotional depth.

2. "Auto Erotic Assimilation" (S2E3)

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This episode reunites Rick with his ex-lover Unity (voiced by Christina Hendricks), a hive mind controlling an entire planet. Their reunion spirals into hedonistic chaos, revealing why they were a toxic match. The episode ends on a tragic note, with Rick teetering on the brink of suicide, underscoring his underlying loneliness and instability.

1. "Total Rickall" (S2E4)

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"Total Rickall" encapsulates everything that makes Rick and Morty exceptional. An alien parasite invades the Smith household, creating false memories and introducing a host of quirky side characters. As the episode shifts from humor to emotional intensity, the impact of memory manipulation on the family is profound. The introduction of Mr. Poopybutthole adds a memorable twist to the narrative.