After seven seasons, Rick and Morty has solidified its place as one of the most acclaimed animated sitcoms ever. The show's unique mix of high-concept storytelling, absurd humor, and emotionally charged character development is unparalleled, even if fans often endure long waits between seasons. While Rick and Morty typically follows an annual release schedule, Season 8's arrival this year was delayed due to the 2023 Writers Guild strike, which lasted five months.

As we eagerly await the next installment of Rick and Morty, let's dive into IGN's selection of the top 15 episodes. Where do classics like "Pickle Rick" and "Rixty Minutes" rank? Let's 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 billed as an adventure to the underwater kingdom of Atlantis, "The Ricklantis Mixup" shifts focus to the Citadel, exploring the lives of various Ricks and Mortys. The episode's surprising conclusion ties up a loose end from a previous season, setting the stage for a significant confrontation in Season 5.

14. "Solaricks" (S6E1)

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While Season 6 may not be the strongest, its premiere, "Solaricks," stands out. Following the dramatic Season 5 finale, Rick and Morty navigate a universe without portals, leading to a humorous misadventure. The episode deepens the rivalry between Rick and Rick Prime and cleverly utilizes the Beth/Space Beth dynamic. It also showcases Jerry's unexpected heroism.

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

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Heist movies can be overwhelming, but Rick and Morty's take on the genre is a delight. This Season 4 episode features a hilariously complex plot centered around Rick's Heist-o-Tron and his nemesis, Rand-o-Tron. The episode also brings back the beloved Mr. Poopybutthole and delivers a memorable line that became an instant meme.

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

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Ever curious 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 comedic subplot involving Summer's protection by Rick's ship.

11. "Rickmurai Jack" (S5E10)

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The Season 5 finale resolves the mystery of Evil Morty's intentions. 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 poignant reminder that Rick's greatest enemy might be himself.

10. "Meeseeks and Destroy" (S1E5)

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This episode showcases the potential of supporting characters like Beth and Jerry. While Morty's adventure is memorable, Mr. Meeseeks steals the show, highlighting the challenges of helping others achieve their goals, especially when it comes to Jerry's golf game.

9. "Mort Dinner Rick Andre" (S5E1)

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Season 5's 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 and Beth and Jerry's contemplation of a threesome with the King of Atlantis adds depth and humor.

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

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This episode cleverly misleads viewers before taking a wild turn. Morty's desire to control their adventures leads to the creation of a save point button, resulting in time-rewinding chaos. It's a perfect blend of sci-fi, humor, and emotional twists, culminating in a heart-wrenching moment for Morty.

7. "Pickle Rick" (S3E3)

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The episode that spawned countless memes, "Pickle Rick" sees Rick transform into a sentient pickle to avoid family therapy. His journey through rat-infested sewers and a confrontation with Jaguar showcases the show's wackiest side.

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

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This episode marks a turning point for Rick and Morty, blending high-concept sci-fi with dark humor. Morty's attempt to win Jessica's love goes disastrously wrong, leading to a shocking conclusion where Rick and Morty must abandon their dimension, setting the stage for future storylines.

5. "The Wedding Squanchers" (S2E10)

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What begins as a joyous celebration for Birdperson and Tammy quickly turns chaotic as the Galactic Federation targets Rick. The episode's emotional climax sees Rick sacrificing himself, leaving the Smith family to adapt to life on an alien planet.

4. "Mortynight Run" (S2E2)

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In this episode, Morty's determination to protect an alien named Fart leads to unexpected twists. Highlights include Jermaine Clement's David Bowie-inspired musical number and Morty's traumatic experience with the arcade game Roy: A Life Well Lived. The episode also features a standout Jerry subplot at a Jerry-only daycare.

3. "Rixty Minutes" (S1E8)

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An episode centered around watching TV becomes one of the series' best. The Smiths explore Rick's interdimensional cable, introducing memorable characters like Ants in My Eyes Johnson. The episode also delves into the emotional struggles of Jerry and Beth as they glimpse alternate lives, with Morty revealing the aftermath of "Rick Potion No. 9" to Summer.

2. "Auto Erotic Assimilation" (S2E3)

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This episode reunites Rick with his ex-lover Unity, a hive mind controlling an entire planet. Their reunion descends into chaos, highlighting why they were a toxic match. The episode's tragic ending, with Rick nearly committing suicide, underscores his deep-seated loneliness and instability.

1. "Total Rickall" (S2E4)

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"Total Rickall" encapsulates everything that makes Rick and Morty great. An alien parasite invades the Smiths' memories, creating a host of bizarre characters. The episode balances humor with emotional depth, culminating in a poignant moment with Mr. Poopybutthole.

And that's our (likely controversial) pick of the best Rick and Morty episodes of all time! Did your favorite episode make the list? Share your thoughts in the comments.