The Ultimate Ranking of Rick & Morty Anthology Episodes You Need to See

Summary

"Mortyplicity" is a confusing anthology episode that leaves viewers unsure of the real Smith family, making it less interesting for future exploration.

"The Ricklantis Mixup" delves deeper into the show's mythology, providing a captivating narrative that delves into the Citadel and the far-reaching consequences of Rick's actions, particularly in relation to Evil Morty.

"Never Ricking Morty" is a self-aware episode that cleverly exposes the obliviousness to Rick's immense significance, shedding light on the profound impact he has on the broader universe.

Rick and Morty has featured numerous anthology episodes throughout its six seasons, seamlessly weaving together multiple comedic storylines within each twenty-two-minute episode. Since its debut in 2013, the show has delivered six anthology episodes, each intricately crafted with subtle details that enrich the show's mythology. Anthology episodes serve as a clever narrative tool, allowing for deeper exploration of the show's fictional universe and its characters, whether through flashbacks, flash-forwards, or the interplay of various storylines. Naturally, Rick and Morty playfully subvert and manipulate this concept.

It remains uncertain whether Rick and Morty season 7 will continue the series' tradition of annual anthology episodes. The show is renowned for its frequent breaking of the fourth wall, with Rick often acknowledging and commenting on storytelling devices. The finest Rick and Morty anthology episodes have frequently stood out as highlights of their respective seasons, although not all of them have been universally acclaimed.

6 Rick and Morty Season 5, Episode 2, Mortyplicity

In Rick and Morty season 5's episode "Mortyplicity," the Smith family becomes the target of killer squids. To protect themselves, Rick creates multiple decoy families scattered across different locations in the country. However, Rick loses track of how many decoy families there are and which ones are real. The rest of the family joins Rick in checking on the decoys, leading to tension and a fight between the two groups.

"Mortyplicity" stands out among the anthology episodes of Rick and Morty. It is more challenging to follow compared to others in the series. The episode leaves viewers unsure about the real Smiths, and the problem remains unresolved. The final scene involves Rick announcing the demise of yet another decoy family. While "Mortyplicity" is still an enjoyable standalone episode of Rick and Morty, it may not be the most intriguing concept for writers to revisit.

5 Rick and Morty Season 3, Episode 7, The Ricklantis Mixup

In "The Ricklantis Mixup" of Rick and Morty season 3, Rick and Morty encounter volunteers seeking donations to rebuild the Citadel of Ricks. However, Rick declines to contribute, highlighting his own role in its destruction. The episode delves into the lives of the various Ricks and Mortys residing in the Citadel, showcasing the intricacies of this society across multiple universes. Notably, the Morty Academy is introduced, alongside the emergence of a political conflict between Ricks and Mortys, ultimately leading to the election of the first Morty President.

"The Ricklantis Mixup" significantly expands the Rick and Morty storyline, shedding light on Rick's profound influence on the entire universe. While the Citadel had been mentioned before, this episode allows for a deeper exploration of the concept, solidifying Rick as his own antagonist. Additionally, it features the return of Evil Morty, whose character arc brilliantly exemplifies the divide between him and his grandfather, showcasing how Morty is manipulated and taken advantage of.

4 Rick and Morty Season 4, Episode 6, Never Ricking Morty

In the episode titled "Never Ricking Morty" from season 4 of Rick and Morty, the characters embark on a space train journey reminiscent of the Orient Express. However, Rick soon realizes that they are trapped within a literary device, with each passenger sharing their own stories involving encounters with him. This episode marks the introduction of the character Story Lord to Rick and Morty, who later reappears in the episode "Full Meta Jackrick" in season 6.

As expected from the show, Rick and Morty frequently employ metaness and break the fourth wall, and this episode is no exception. Ultimately, it is revealed that the train they are on is actually a toy train purchased by Morty as a gift from a shop in the Citadel. The Rick and Morty counterparts they encounter throughout the episode were never truly present in reality. Similar to "The Ricklantis Mixup," this episode sheds light on Rick's impact on the wider universe and the general lack of awareness regarding his influence.

3 Rick and Morty Season 1, Episode 8, Rixty Minutes

"Rixty Minutes" introduces interdimensional cable for the first time. Frustrated with the lackluster TV options, Rick installs a new television system that provides access to channels from infinite universes. Tired of the family's constant arguments over what to watch, Rick gives Summer, Beth, and Jerry a headset that allows them to glimpse their lives in alternate realities.

In "Rixty Minutes," various possibilities within the Rick and Morty universe are explored, including a world where people have ants in their eyeballs, an alien version of Garfield called Gazorpazorpfield, and even Jerry as a movie star. This episode not only captivates with its improvised scenes but also sheds light on Beth and Jerry's relationship, showcasing how their paths were destined to intersect despite Rick's disapproval. The subplot resurfaces in season 2, but it remains uncertain whether another interdimensional cable episode will be featured in Rick and Morty.

2 Rick and Morty Season 3, Episode 8, Morty's Mind Blowers

Rick and Morty season 3's episode titled "Morty's Mind Blowers" starts with Morty being traumatized by his recent adventure with Rick. He requests his grandfather to erase the memories associated with it. Rick agrees, but to Morty's surprise, he finds himself in a room filled with other memories that have been wiped from his mind. These mindblowers have intentionally concealed some of Morty's darkest moments. Morty delves into these memories, shocked by what he had been made to forget, only to discover that Rick removed certain memories for his own personal gain.

Through "Morty's Mind Blowers," the viewers gain a deeper understanding of Morty's relationship with Rick and his family. The resulting chaos leads to both Rick and Morty having their minds completely wiped, leaving Summer to come to their rescue. Among anthology episodes, "Morty's Mind Blowers" stands out as one of the strongest, providing insight into the Smith family's lives and filling in some missing pieces.

1 Rick and Morty Season 2, Episode 8, Interdimensional Cable 2: Tempting Fate

In Rick and Morty season 2, the episode "Interdimensional Cable 2: Tempting Fate" takes us back to the world of interdimensional cable. Building on the success of the previous episode, this installment offers a fresh collection of alternative realities and characters to enjoy. Meanwhile, Jerry finds himself in the hospital and faces pressure to donate a body part in order to save the life of an alien activist.

What sets this episode apart is its frequent breaking of the fourth wall. It cleverly parodies existing shows like "The Personal Space Show" on BBC 2, which even mentions a spoof of the British soap opera Eastenders called "The Northsiders." Additionally, interdimensional cable begins to affect the characters' immediate surroundings. For example, they see a woman suddenly appearing on-screen, standing on a lamppost as part of the show "How Did I Get Here?". "Interdimensional Cable 2: Tempting Fate" is packed with the trademark hilarity and absurdity that Rick and Morty fans love, and it surpasses its predecessor in rare fashion.