‘Rick and Morty’ is an American animated science fiction series that was initially released in 2013. It was thought to have been inspired by iconic 80s franchise Back to the Future, and it serves as a parody to the iconic title The series has garnered acclaim from both critics and audiences alike and spans six seasons. Its premise follows a mad scientist named Rick and his teenage grandson Morty, who go on a series of unique adventures through space and time. The premise of this show features adult and mature themes through the use of explicit and sometimes satirical humour.
In this article, we will explore and rank the 10 best episodes of this popular animated comedy, and discover the reasons behind its cult following and appeal. After ten years since the series’ inception, deciding on our favourite episodes may be difficult. Nevertheless, we will attempt to rank the ones that have left a lasting impression on their audiences.
The 10 best episodes ranked
10. The Rickshank Rickdemption (Season 3, episode 1)
The plot of this particular episode rivals even that of a Marvel crossover movie. It follows the incarceration of Rick and the colonisation of Earth by aliens. After a series of events leading to Rick escaping and switching his consciousness with several villains, the team manages to save the planet.
9. Pickle Rick (Season 3, episode 3)
This episode is arguably one of the most talked about Rick and Morty episodes, given the brilliance and ridiculousness of it. As evident from the title of the episode, Rick turns himself into a pickle to avoid a family counselling session. However, he denies the therapy is the reason for his transformation. The underlying message of this episode is one relating to family issues and self-improvement.
This episode, the recipient of an Emmy award, is truly one to check out.
8. The Vat of Acid Episode (Season 4, episode 8)
Another Rick and Morty episode to receive an Emmy award, this episode is truly a masterpiece of the animated small screen. Quite literally dealing with the consequences of decisions and actions, this episode sees Rick and Morty jump into a vat of acid to fake their own deaths.
Morty asks Rick to create a ‘save button’ like checkpoints in video games so they can correct mistakes. He learns about the consequences of actions and how they define you after he steals the button and makes some unfortunate mistakes.
7. Star Mort Rickturn of the Jerri (Season 4, episode 10)
Depicting a strained relationship between father and daughter, this episode is a little more heart-wrenching than the others but undercut with conveniently timed humour. This episode centres on Rick and his daughter Beth, whom he has cloned and is unsure of who is the real one. After facing up to his terrible fatherly decisions, Rick decides to be a better person but ultimately fails to garner everyone’s support.
6. Total Rickall (Season 2, episode 4)
Another comedic yet somewhat relatable narrative shapes this episode, where the characters’ house is overrun with parasites that have taken the form of themselves. Rick and his family eventually triumph over the parasites once they realise who is the real version of themselves. The theme of this episode makes it seem more relatable to the average viewer, as it deals with positive and negative memories surrounding family members.
This episode is loved for its familial focus and its emphasis on resolving family issues and relationships.
5. The Ricklantis Mixup (Season 3, episode 7)
This episode is one of the most meta of the title, featuring references and odes to previous episodes. As Rick and Morty prepare to embark on an adventure to Atlantis, another version of themselves shows up.
The episode is split into different sections and features several convoluted plot points; however, the storytelling remains as excellent as ever.
4. Close Rick-counters of the Rick Kind (Season 1, episode 10)
Most notable for introducing the first appearance of ‘Evil Morty’, this episode serves as a prequel to The Ricklantis Mixup and Rickmurai Jack episodes. In this episode, Rick and Morty encounter evil versions of themselves and must decipher where they originated from and who is controlling them.
This symbolic episode marks the beginning of a trilogy of episodes featuring similar plot-points. Make sure you watch all three episodes in order.
3. Meeseeks and Destroy (Season 1, episode 5)
Highly rated among critics for its storytelling, this episode introduces multiple creatures called ‘Mr. Meeseeks’, who live to carry out certain tasks given to them. Leading a simultaneous adventure is Morty, who ends up in a fantasy world with Rick.
The episode has been well received among audiences and critics alike and explores many themes, some of which can be deemed more mature and difficult.
2. Look Who’s Purging Now (Season 2, episode 9)
Number two on our list is the ninth episode of the second season, ‘Look Who’s Purging Now,’ which parodies the narrative of The Purge films. Featuring scenes of strong language and violence, this episode is on the more mature side. However, the themes of overcoming violence and realising your true self are present, making this episode one of the best told stories of the franchise.
1. Rickmurai Jack (Season 5, episode 10)
Here we finally reach our top rated episode, Rickmurai Jack. We’ve put this episode at number one simply for its exceptional storytelling, critical acclaim and emotional themes that wrap up season 5 extremely well. It also features the end of the ‘Evil Morty’ storyline, which has spanned over three episodes across different seasons.
This episode features mature themes, but ultimately is ended with a wholesome message about family love. It’s safe to say, Rick and Morty is truly a triumph of the small screen, and we’d definitely recommend watching it if you haven’t already.
Shows like Rick and Morty
If you can’t get enough of this critically acclaimed sci-fi series, why not check out similar shows? Here’s a list of shows that are similar to Rick and Morty:
- Futurama
- Bojack Horseman
- The Simpsons
- Family Guy
Further reading
- Top 26 best animated shows on Netflix
- Rick and Morty recaps and reviews
- Best animated shows on Netflix in 2023
