15 Best Regular Show Episodes, Ranked

In 2010, the animated series “Regular Show” made its debut on Cartoon Network. This show was conceived by J.G. Quintel, who also provided the voice for Mordecai, one of the main characters. Mordecai is a 20-something blue jay and alongside his raccoon friend and roommate Rigby (William Salyers), they form the core duo. However, “Regular Show” was known for its diverse cast, with characters like Benson, a sentient gumball machine voiced by Sam Marin, Pops, a lollipop character also voiced by Marin, and Skips, a yeti portrayed by Mark Hamill, being some of the many memorable oddballs featured in the show.

Among the greatest shows ever aired on Cartoon Network, “Regular Show” consistently shone during its eight-season span, garnering critical acclaim and impressive ratings. Earning an Emmy from five nominations, it’s widely agreed that the show maintained exceptional quality throughout its run, with some of its finest episodes emerging in its latter stages. This comprehensive ranking of the top “Regular Show” episodes is compiled from viewer reviews on IMDb, best-of lists curated by both fans and other media outlets, as well as a touch of editorial preference from our team at Looper.

15. This Is My Jam (Season 2, Episode 13)

Unlike some TV shows that are more enjoyable if you watch the first season, “Regular Show” didn’t truly shine until its second season. The episode “This is My Jam,” which we’ll see on this list, showcases this transformation well. Characters Mordecai and Rigby, who often share a love for music, find themselves arguing over Mordecai’s dislike of one of Rigby’s favorite songs from his past in this episode.

As a fellow gaming enthusiast, I gotta say “This is My Jam” isn’t just about two mates going head-to-head over pop culture trivia, but it’s also an uproariously funny exploration of those pesky tunes that burrow deep into our minds. We all know how they can dominate our thoughts, making us feel like we’re on a loop until we manage to break free, even when the song in question was once our favorite earworm!

14. Video Game Wizards (Season 3, Episode 19)

With the rise of Gen Xers and Millennials producing more art, the influence of video games became increasingly prominent in movies, series, and television shows. A prime example of this is “Regular Show,” where characters like Mordecai, Rigby, and their friends frequently engage with video games, both for leisure and to serve a greater objective. In Season 3’s episode, “Video Game Wizards,” the gaming featured was definitely serving a purpose beyond casual play.

Mordecai and Skips join a video game competition to secure a gaming gadget known as the Maximum Glove, reminiscent of the iconic Nintendo Entertainment System controller, the Power Glove, which leaves Rigby feeling slighted since he believed Mordecai would pick him as a partner. However, they all embark on this adventure together, and just like many “Regular Show” plots, the situation quickly spirals into laugh-out-loud absurdity, straying far from a conventional narrative about a standard video game tournament. The episode concludes with the revelation that the Maximum Glove is actually worthless, mirroring the same disillusionment associated with the Power Glove.

13. The Real Thomas (Season 6, Episode 8)

Despite most “Regular Show” episodes being standalone, the series wasn’t shy about planning ahead and would often delight long-term viewers. A prime example of this is the Season 6 episode, “The Real Thomas,” which centers around the character Thomas who has been a recurring figure since his introduction in Season 4.

In the role of Thomas, voice actor Roger Craig Smith brought yet another charming character to life within the show’s cast. However, in “The Real Thomas,” an unexpected twist unfolds as we discover that undercover work for the KGB had been Thomas’ secret mission all along, aiming to gather intelligence within the park. This type of game-changing plot development, where a character’s path takes a drastic turn, is typically found in more complex, mythos-heavy series like “Adventure Time.” Remarkably, “Regular Show” also ventured into this territory from time to time, and these instances were always intriguing and enjoyable.

12. Cheer Up Pops (Season 8, Episode 26)

Beyond being a large lollipop, Pops stands out as one of the more eccentric characters in the show due to his habit of adopting the mannerisms and appearance of an early 20th-century British gentleman. His storylines were always entertaining, and “Cheer Up Pops” is arguably his best episode. This episode also happens to be one of the finest in “Regular Show,” airing just before the three-part series finale.

Throughout most of the series, Pops maintains a near-unwavering optimism, making his loss of hope in Season 8 particularly poignant. Earlier in the season, his antagonist, Anti-Pops (portrayed by Robert Englund), was introduced as a dark counterpart to Pops. As the final showdown between these two characters approaches, everything is at stake. To prepare Pops for battle, his friends reminisce about their past adventures together. This episode skillfully balances humor with emotional depth and does so effectively.

11. Rigby’s Graduation Day Special (Season 7, Episode 36)

On ‘Regular Show,’ certain episodes spanned the entire half-hour instead of being split into two shorter segments. This was never excessive but always seemed appropriate, and this held true for episodes like “Rigby’s Graduation Day Special,” which served as the extended finale of Season 7. The central storyline revolves around Rigby, who had gone back to high school after previously dropping out. However, when he is asked to deliver a speech on graduation day – one that will be broadcast on TV – his initial enthusiasm for the occasion turns into apprehension.

the entire gang being propelled into space, establishing the primary conflict for Season 8.

10. Karaoke Video (Season 2, Episode 28)

As a fan reminiscing about my favorite shows from the ’80s-loving creators, “Regular Show” often paid homage to the pop culture of that era. For instance, in Season 2’s “Karaoke Video,” Mordecai and Rigby picked the iconic ’80s rock tune “We’re Not Gonna Take It” by Twisted Sister for their karaoke performance. However, when someone jokingly asked what they were refusing to accept, they unexpectedly unleashed a rant against some of their friends!

The following morning, Mordecai and Rigby, watching their recorded performance at home, understand they need to erase the tape to spare their friends any potential pain from seeing it. However, in true “Regular Show” fashion, what seems like a straightforward task spirals into an absurdly complex series of events, leading to one uproarious mishap after another. Unlike other shows that might teach Mordecai and Rigby about the importance of friends or similar lessons, “Regular Show,” while not shy about sentimentality, didn’t use this episode for that purpose — instead, it delivered 11 minutes of side-splitting humor without a hint of moralizing.

9. A Bunch of Full Grown Geese (Season 4, Episode 19)

In reality, the 98th episode of “Regular Show” was broadcasted first, but the 100th episode produced, titled “A Bunch of Full Grown Geese,” was heavily promoted as the series’ milestone episode before it aired. Many shows utilize their 100th episode as a significant event, filled with references to the previous 99 episodes and a general celebration of the show up until that point. Conveniently, “A Bunch of Full Grown Geese” meets these requirements perfectly.

In “A Bunch of Full Grown Geese,” released as the Season 4 opener following a season filled with cameos, the writers were given the opportunity to break away from that tradition. Instead, they chose to return the show to its roots, serving as a continuation of the beloved Season 2 episode “A Bunch of Baby Ducks.” Despite not making our top list, it remains a fan favorite. Moreover, this episode pays homage to the anime series “Neon Genesis Evangelion” and mecha anime in general, offering a heartwarming tribute.

8. Skips’ Story (Season 5, Episode 22)

Previously mentioned, “Regular Show” didn’t shy away from moments that weren’t purely comedic but rather tugged at our heartstrings. A standout example of this is the episode “Skips’ Story,” which aired during Season 5. This episode delves deep into Skips’ character, providing an expansion on his backstory and adding depth to what we already knew about him.

In the beloved series, viewers understand that Skip is immortal, something they simply accept without much contemplation. However, “Skips’ Story” delves into this aspect a little deeper, not only recalling a particular, poignant event from his teenage past but also exploring the implications of an extended lifespan. This episode offers a thought-provoking perspective on the emotional burden of living multiple lives and the heartache that comes with losing countless loved ones over time.

7. Rage Against the TV (Season 2, Episode 8)

In an ordinary episode of “Regular Show”, a routine chore often spirals out of control, becoming a matter of great importance and sheer absurdity. For instance, in Season 2’s “Rage Against the TV,” the task at hand is Mordecai and Rigby’s quest to acquire a new television. However, one lead after another proves fruitless, leading to a final showdown where the characters must battle a monstrous television entity.

What makes ‘Rage Against the TV’ stand out is its nostalgic appeal, as Mordecai and Rigby reach a challenging level in their video game and choose to pause it instead of losing their progress while they look for a new television. This action may not make sense to today’s young viewers who are accustomed to saving games, but ’80s and ’90s kids will understand the struggle. Moreover, the importance placed on video game progress might seem absurd to non-gamers, further emphasizing that ‘Regular Show’ is created by individuals who have a deep understanding of gaming culture.

6. No Train No Gain (Season 8, Episode 22)

In the lead-up to its grand finale, “Regular Show” Season 8 focused not just on the entire gang but predominantly on Pops as he geared up for combat. The episode “No Train No Gain” employs a traditional training montage, but in true “Regular Show” style, it flips this method on its head.

In a twist of events, Mordecai and Rigby grow tired of repeatedly listening to the same montage song, leading them to swap it out for a speed metal tune. However, this decision triggers an unforeseen consequence as Pops’ training regimen becomes excessively rigorous due to the new music, bringing the park close to destruction. Not only does the show creatively employ the term “montage” as a verb in this scenario, but “No Train No Gain” also illustrates the series’ transition from episodic to serial storytelling in its final season while maintaining all that made it exceptional earlier on. In fact, this transformation seems to enhance the series even more.

5. Brilliant Century Duck Crisis Special (Season 6, Episode 24)

It appears that the creators of “Regular Show” have a deep affection for video games, Gen X nostalgia, and anime, which is beautifully demonstrated in the “Brilliant Century Duck Crisis Special” from Season 6. The title alone is a delightful mix of words, while the episode starts with an anime-style intro. Furthermore, the Voltron-like merging of smaller entities into a large animal mecha, as well as the overall tone that both makes fun of and pays tribute to ’80s anime in an exceptional manner, are further evidence of this love.

In truth, “Brilliant Duck Crisis Special” isn’t merely a whimsical tribute to Japanese animation; it delves deeper into the complexities of maintaining integrity versus financial gain. This is exemplified through the characters Mordecai and Rigby, who encounter an opportunity to have action figures modeled after them. Initially choosing the virtuous path, they falter when presented with a video game proposal by the interested company. Given their affection for gaming, it’s no surprise that they swiftly abandon their principles in favor of this new offer.

4. Eggscellent (Season 3, Episode 17)

In the introduction to this feature, we noted that “Regular Show” received an Emmy, and it was episode “Eggscellent” from Season 3 that brought home this award. This show was honored with the trophy for exceptional short-form animated program, outperforming strong contenders such as “Phineas and Ferb” and Cartoon Network’s acclaimed series “Adventure Time” in its category that year.

It’s quite apt that “Eggscellent” contributed to “Regular Show” earning an Emmy award, as it encapsulates the show’s brilliance in a concise 11-minute tale. Although not the strongest episode, it effectively distills the essence of what makes “Regular Show” exceptional. The story is filled with familiar tropes, but they are given a unique, humorous twist, such as Rigby participating in an omelet-eating competition despite having an egg allergy. Beneath the humor lies a valuable lesson about friendship, fitting since Mordecai and Rigby have one of the most endearing TV friendships ever.

3. Meet the Seer (Season 8, Episode 25)

As a devoted fan, I’d say that in one of the most self-aware episodes ever, “Meet the Seer” on “Regular Show” cleverly hinted at the ongoing fight between streaming platforms and traditional cable TV. Five years before “South Park” made headlines with their 2022 special “The Streaming Wars,” “Regular Show” was already voicing its thoughts on the transformation of television viewing, from the good old days pre-Netflix, to the way we consume content nowadays – a change that leaves us pondering whether this evolution is ultimately beneficial or detrimental.

A significant portion of this episode unfolds on Planet Nielsen, a nod to the once-dominant Nielsen ratings that used to determine a show’s success or failure (though they can still provide insights into the most watched TV show from your birth year). However, these ratings are now becoming increasingly irrelevant. The episode is filled with references to television terms and concepts from the pre-streaming era, many of which have already become obsolete or are on their way out. Despite this, “Meet the Seer” skillfully maintains the main narrative of Season 8, bringing us a step closer to the anticipated climactic finale, which was only two episodes away.

2. Exit 9B (Season 4, Episode 1)

The 100th episode titled “A Bunch of Full Grown Geese” commemorated this milestone by revisiting the start, so to speak. Conversely, the Season 4 premiere, “Exit 9B,” launched a wealth of appearances from the secondary characters that had been part of the series in the preceding three seasons, marking approximately the show’s halfway point.

In recent times, it seems like many films and TV shows have become a whirlwind of nostalgic callbacks – particularly those based on comic books. These cameos often risk feeling more like gimmicks than genuine creative contributions. However, “Regular Show” managed to strike a perfect balance between the “Hey, remember this character?” moments and a deep, poignant storyline. In an unexpected twist, most of the main crew, except for Mordecai and Rigby, are killed in a mass shooting involving stun guns, sending our heroes on a journey through time to put things right again. Time travel is tricky ground to tread, but this episode handles it effortlessly by bending the rules in a way only “Regular Show” can. As a fan, I’ve always appreciated their unique blend of humor and heart.

1. A Regular Epic Final Battle (Season 8, Episode 27)

As a gaming enthusiast, I can’t help but feel a pang of nostalgia when it comes to TV shows that didn’t get the ending they truly deserved, especially those in the cartoon realm. The prolonged production timelines for animated series often mean they learn about their cancellation much too late, making it difficult to pen a fitting finale. However, “Regular Show” bucked this trend by deciding to wrap up in Season 8, allowing the creators to deliver an outstanding final season and a beautifully crafted series finale.

In contrast to previous instances where the series aired double episodes, “A Regular Epic Final Battle” truly embodied its title by spanning approximately three episodes’ worth of content. Each moment was crucial in providing both a thrilling climactic battle and a deeply gratifying — yet poignantly bittersweet — conclusion. Time travel, recaps, previews, selfless acts, and various other television conventions were abundant in this final episode, but none were misused.

Similar to “Skips’ Story,” “A Regular Epic Final Battle” manages to interweave humorous sections with serious, emotional ones effectively. It’s impressive how it balances the most absurd TV moments alongside intense and poignant scenes without any of these transitions feeling jarring or out of sync.

2025-02-22 22:31