How I Met Your Mother

10 Best Episodes of How I Met Your Mother

Are you a fan of heartwarming sitcoms that make you laugh, cry, and everything in between? If so, you're probably familiar with the beloved TV show "How I Met Your Mother." This hit series, which first premiered on CBS in 2005, follows the journey of a father as he tells his children the story of how he met their mother. Through a series of flashbacks, we get to witness the adventures, mishaps, and heartfelt moments that he and his four best friends experience along the way. With 10 seasons under its belt, this show has had its fair share of memorable episodes that have left audiences wanting more.

From hilarious antics to touching moments of friendship and love, "How I Met Your Mother" has it all. With each passing season, viewers have been treated to a plethora of standout episodes that have become fan favorites. Whether it's the gang's annual Thanksgiving traditions, their epic road trips, or their hilarious attempts at finding love in the city that never sleeps, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

So, if you're ready to relive the laughter, the tears, and the unforgettable moments that "How I Met Your Mother" has to offer, join us as we dive into the best episodes of this beloved sitcom. From the pilot episode to the series finale, we'll take you on a trip down memory lane and remind you why this show has captivated audiences for over a decade. So grab a bowl of popcorn, get cozy on the couch, and let's embark on this legendary journey together.

Written by Sophie and last updated on dec 12, 2024.

PS: The following content contains spoilers!

PPS: I will admit that parts of this page was written with the help of AI - it makes my work so much easier to not start from a blank page!

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How I Met Your Mother - S6E15

#15 - Oh Honey (Season 6 - Episode 15)

In the episode "Oh Honey" of How I Met Your Mother, things get emotional when Barney opens up to Honey about his life. Ted, on the other hand, admits to the group that he has feelings for Zoey. The episode takes an interesting approach with a literal game of telephone, as Marshall tries to piece together what happened while he was away. This frame story adds fuel to the non-linear storytelling and perspective-changing scenes that the show is known for. However, the central relationship between Ted and Zoey falls a bit short, as it hasn't been built up enough to make their confession of love meaningful. Despite this, Jennifer Morrison does a great job portraying Zoe, adding charm to her character. And let's not forget Katy Perry's guest appearance, which may be entertaining for a few minutes but quickly becomes outlandish. Overall, "Oh Honey" has its moments of laughter and a well-done frame story, but falls short in its central relationship arc and guest appearance.

The episode was rated 8.26 from 1191 votes.

How I Met Your Mother - S8E24

#14 - Something New (Season 8 - Episode 24)

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In the episode "Something New" of How I Met Your Mother, the gang is getting ready for Robin and Barney's wedding. Ted takes Lily to see the house he's been working on, while Robin and Barney's night of relaxation is disrupted by an annoying couple at their favorite restaurant. Meanwhile, Marshall decides to take a spontaneous trip to Minnesota with the baby to visit his family.

Barney and Robin team up to play pranks on the couple who stole their table, showcasing their mischievous side. While their actions may not make them the best people, it strengthens their bond and adds some much-needed excitement to their relationship.

Marshall's storyline, along with Lily's involvement, revolves around a moral dilemma. Marshall is offered a judgeship that conflicts with their plans to move to Rome. Marshall's mother, Judy Erickson, doesn't discourage him from taking the opportunity, leading to some humorous situations in Minnesota. This storyline sets the stage for future exploration in the next season.

The main focus of the episode is the story between Ted and Lily. Ted contemplates moving away, feeling like the odd one out as Marshall and Lily move, and Robin and Barney start their new life together. While the idea of a fresh start for Ted is intriguing, his reasons for wanting to leave are questionable. His conflicting emotions about being with Robin, despite her marrying his best friend, test the patience of viewers. Additionally, the revelation that Robin went through a similar situation during Ted's previous engagement feels contrived. However, the episode does give viewers a glimpse of The Mother's face, adding a small but exciting element to the story.

Overall, "Something New" offers the usual elements of How I Met Your Mother, with a mix of comedy, character development, and relationship dynamics. The finale is marked by a poignant final montage, where each character contemplates their future. This episode sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting next season. The unexpected appearance of Casey Wilson and Keegan-Michael Key adds a surprising twist for fans of their previous shows. With an amazing ending, this episode leaves viewers eagerly anticipating what's to come.

The episode was rated 8.26 from 2081 votes.

How I Met Your Mother - S1E13

#13 - Drumroll, Please (Season 1 - Episode 13)

In this episode of How I Met Your Mother, titled "Drumroll, Please," Ted's love life takes an unexpected turn at a wedding. After meeting a captivating woman, they both decide to keep things casual by not exchanging last names or numbers. However, things quickly become complicated when Ted's curiosity gets the best of him and he embarks on a mission to uncover her true identity.

But here's the twist - as Ted dives deeper into his quest to find out her name, he takes a major tumble that leaves him in an embarrassing predicament. Will Ted be able to recover from this literal fall and salvage his chances with the mystery woman?

While some viewers may be growing weary of the Ted and Robin storyline, this episode promises to inject some fresh energy and comedic mishaps into the mix. Get ready for a hilarious rollercoaster ride as Ted navigates the treacherous waters of love and the consequences of his own curiosity. Who needs last names and numbers when you've got a drumroll-worthy adventure like this?

The episode was rated 8.27 from 1344 votes.

How I Met Your Mother - S1E15

#12 - Game Night (Season 1 - Episode 15)

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In the episode "Game Night" of the popular TV show "How I Met Your Mother," the gang receives a mysterious tape from one of Barney's ex-girlfriends. Eager to uncover the truth behind Barney's heartbreak and his transformation into a suit-wearing bachelor, the entire group gathers to watch the tape. However, there's a catch - in order for everyone to learn Barney's story, they must first share their most embarrassing moments. Get ready for a night filled with laughter, revelations, and a deeper understanding of everyone's favorite character, Barney.

Fans of the show have hailed "Game Night" as one of their favorite episodes. It offers a glimpse into Barney's origin story, showcasing the talent of the actor and the complexity of the character. As the episode unfolds, viewers experience a rollercoaster of emotions, from sadness to laughter, all while delving deeper into Barney's past. With its clever storytelling, humorous sketches, and a touch of heart, this episode is a must-watch for any fan of "How I Met Your Mother."

"Game Night" has received rave reviews, with many praising the episode for its enjoyable and entertaining nature. The writers expertly balance the exaggerated tales of Barney's past with the more relatable experiences of the rest of the gang. Through this episode, viewers witness the cartoonish yet charming nature of Barney, while also appreciating the normalcy of the other characters. It's a delicate tone to strike, but "Game Night" manages it flawlessly, leaving viewers both entertained and touched by the relationships between the characters.

(Note: Please note that some of the comments provided by fans may not be suitable for publication due to inappropriate language.)

The episode was rated 8.28 from 1359 votes.

How I Met Your Mother - S1E10

#11 - The Pineapple Incident (Season 1 - Episode 10)

In "The Pineapple Incident," one of the most beloved episodes of How I Met Your Mother, Ted finds himself in a sticky situation after a wild night of partying. After downing five shots to clear his mind, Ted wakes up the next morning with a mysterious woman in his bed. The catch? He has no recollection of who she is or how she ended up there. Determined to solve the mystery, Ted turns to his trusty group of friends for help in piecing together the events of the night before.

But amidst the laughs and banter, one burning question remains: what about the pineapple? Fans of the show will recall that this episode introduced the enigmatic pineapple, leaving viewers wondering how it ended up in Ted's room. And while the pineapple itself may be a minor detail, it has become a symbol of the show's ability to keep audiences guessing and craving more.

"The Pineapple Incident" may not be considered the show's best offering, but it still delivers plenty of humor and memorable moments. While early Ted's behavior can be a bit irritating, the true magic of How I Met Your Mother lies in the genuine friendship between the characters. With in-jokes, high fives, and a sense of camaraderie, the episode showcases the kind of bond that only longtime friends can share. So, grab a drink and join Ted and his gang as they navigate the hilarious aftermath of a night they can't quite remember.

The episode was rated 8.30 from 1425 votes.

How I Met Your Mother - S7E12

#10 - Symphony of Illumination (Season 7 - Episode 12)

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In the How I Met Your Mother episode titled "Symphony of Illumination," Robin is faced with devastating news that she decides to keep hidden from her friends. Meanwhile, Marshall takes on the task of decorating his suburban home for Christmas, with some unexpected help from his neighbor.

This episode has received mixed reviews, but it certainly packs an emotional punch. The reveal that Robin's imagined conversation with her future children is actually a coping mechanism for her infertility is both gimmicky and heart-wrenching. It explores the complex emotions of having a possibility ripped away, even if it was something she didn't want at the time.

Despite its flaws, this episode showcases the show's ability to find humor, meaning, and heart in significant life moments. The moment when Robin throws her eggnog in the trash, devastated but trying to reassure herself, is truly heartbreaking. And in a touching act of friendship, Ted is there to comfort her, reaffirming the idea that loved ones will be there for us in both our highest and lowest points.

Overall, "Symphony of Illumination" delves into the complicated darkness of confronting unexpected news, and does so with grace and depth. While not perfect, it exemplifies what How I Met Your Mother does best - finding the humor and heart in significant life experiences.

The episode was rated 8.31 from 1282 votes.

How I Met Your Mother - S7E23

#9 - The Magician's Code: Part One (Season 7 - Episode 23)

In "The Magician's Code: Part One" episode of How I Met Your Mother, Lily goes into labor, causing a frenzy among the group. In order to distract Lily and keep her calm, Ted and Robin take turns telling her stories. Meanwhile, Marshall finds himself in a race against time as he rushes back from Atlantic City to be by Lily's side.

While the episode received mixed reviews with a rating of 5.7/10, there were moments of brilliance amidst the chaos. Some viewers felt that the random cutaway gags, reminiscent of Family Guy, took away from the present moment. However, there were still funny moments such as everyone wearing the same Breakfast Club costume and Ted's elaborate labor announcement.

Despite the comedic mishaps, there were touching moments that resonated with the audience. Lily's dad, initially portrayed as the worst person to have in a medical emergency, ultimately becomes the one who gives her the strength to continue without Marshall. Barney's heartfelt speech to the bus driver about why Marshall deserves to be present for the birth of his child showcases his own desire for a loving relationship like Marshall and Lily's. Finally, the episode concludes on a heartwarming note as Marshall arrives, announces he's a dad, and the group embraces.

Overall, "The Magician's Code: Part One" delivers a mix of both comedic and heartfelt moments, making it a memorable episode in the How I Met Your Mother series.

The episode was rated 8.32 from 1320 votes.

How I Met Your Mother - S3E9

#8 - Slapsgiving (Season 3 - Episode 9)

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In the episode "Slapsgiving" of How I Met Your Mother, Lily and Marshall navigate their first Thanksgiving as a married couple, while Barney anxiously awaits the impending slap from the slap bet countdown clock. The episode strikes a balance between lighter moments with the slap bet and deeper moments as Ted and Robin grapple with being friends post-breakup. The portrayal of their struggles offers insightful commentary on maintaining a friendship with an ex. Ted and Robin's honest discussions about their frustrations with each other's new partners and their eventual realization of their enduring connection provide a poignant exploration of the complexities of friendship after romance.

While the Ted and Robin storyline shines in this episode, some viewers may find the slap bet aspect less successful. Although the initial slap bet episode was a hit, the ongoing focus on the slap begins to feel contrived. However, the episode still offers comedic moments with clever puns and veiled threats, delivered with great comedic timing by Jason Segel and Neil Patrick Harris. Despite some reservations, the episode remains entertaining, delivering laughs and delving into the heart of Ted and Robin's friendship.

Overall, "Slapsgiving" is a funny episode that showcases the strengths of How I Met Your Mother. It combines humor with moments of introspection, exploring the challenges of maintaining a friendship with an ex. While some may question the portrayal of the difficulties in remaining friends with an ex, the episode still offers an enjoyable viewing experience.

The episode was rated 8.33 from 1248 votes.

How I Met Your Mother - S1E22

#7 - Come On (Season 1 - Episode 22)

In the episode "Come On" of How I Met Your Mother, Ted is determined to keep Robin from going on a camping trip so that they can spend more time together. Meanwhile, Barney seeks the help of an old flame to perform a rain dance, showcasing his devotion and goofiness in a thematic way. However, the real heart of the episode lies with Marshall and Lily, the backbone of the show. As Marshall discovers Lily's interview for a fellowship in San Francisco, their relationship faces real and believable problems amidst their palpable love for each other. The contrast between their struggle and Ted and Robin's romantic victory creates a poignant and bittersweet atmosphere.

One of the most brilliant moments in the entire show occurs in the final scene of "Come On." As an exhilarated Ted finds a crestfallen Marshall, the contrast of triumph and tragedy is striking. Friends comforting each other in the rain, with the fitting accompaniment of "This Modern Love" playing in the background, creates a truly unforgettable juxtaposition. While Ted's scene with Robin may be nice enough, it is Marshall and Lily's kiss in the midst of their fight that truly captures the audience's emotions. Their strong and believable relationship, coupled with the real problems they face, makes their story both heart-wrenching and genuine.

However, not all viewers sympathize with Marshall. Some argue that he didn't deserve the heartbreak he experienced. The episode reveals that Lily's desire to pursue her passion for painting outweighed her desire to marry him, causing their relationship to suffer. To make matters worse, the ultimate irony is that it didn't work out for Lily, and she ended up coming back anyway. This turn of events leaves some viewers feeling that Lily is a hypocrite, causing them to empathize with Marshall even more.

Fans of the show may also recognize Amy Acker, who portrays Penelope in this episode. Acker's familiar face may be attributed to her roles in other popular shows such as "Dollhouse" and "Person of Interest," where she played Dr. Claire Saunders and Root, respectively. Her appearance adds another layer of intrigue to the episode, leaving viewers trying to recall where they have seen her before.

In "Come On," How I Met Your Mother continues to captivate audiences with its mix of romance, comedy, and relatable relationship struggles. Ted's determination, Barney's goofiness, and the emotional rollercoaster of Marshall and Lily's relationship keep viewers engaged and eager to see what happens next.

The episode was rated 8.33 from 1289 votes.

How I Met Your Mother - S5E8

#6 - The Playbook (Season 5 - Episode 8)

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In the episode "The Playbook" of the hit TV show *How I Met Your Mother*, Barney finds himself single again after his relationship with Robin comes to an end. But fear not, because Barney has a secret weapon to help him navigate the dating scene once more – his infamous "playbook."

This episode takes a unique approach to storytelling, as it is framed as a flashback told by Lily to a girl at the bar. The entire episode ends up being part of Barney's master plan, showcasing the show's signature creativity and clever premise. And let's not forget the fun and entertaining sketches that accompany the various "plays" in Barney's playbook.

While the overall story may be a bit weak and harsh towards Robin, the episode still manages to deliver the fun and inventive reintroduction of Barney on the prowl. Add to that the constant friendly ribbing from Ted and Marshall towards Robin, and you've got the perfect recipe for a classic *How I Met Your Mother* episode. So sit back, relax, and prepare to be entertained as Barney dusts off his playbook and dives headfirst into the world of dating once again.

The episode was rated 8.34 from 1223 votes.

How I Met Your Mother - S8E22

#5 - The Bro Mitzvah (Season 8 - Episode 22)

In the "The Bro Mitzvah" episode of How I Met Your Mother, the gang comes together to plan a legendary bachelor party for Barney. With a rating of 8.2/10, this episode manages to strike a balance between implausibility and laugh-out-loud moments, making it a fan favorite.

Unlike other episodes that revolve around getting married, this episode focuses on giving Barney the worst night of his life as a prank. It's a wild and wacky lark that is meant to be enjoyed for its comedic value rather than being a pivotal moment in the characters' relationships. Plus, it's just one night of terror for Barney, not dragged out for days and episodes.

What makes this episode even more enjoyable is the involvement of Robin as the mastermind behind the scheme. It shows that she truly understands Barney, and it's easier to believe that he would be impressed and excited by such an elaborate prank. The episode also delivers on the humor front, with Quinn's return and her entertaining everyone except Barney, Robin bonding with Barney's mom over awkward conversations about sex, and Ted and Marshall's playful arguments about the plan.

Overall, "The Bro Mitzvah" takes a fun and light-hearted approach to scheming, making it a refreshing change from the usual drama. It's a hilarious episode that keeps the viewers entertained from start to finish.

The episode was rated 8.34 from 2039 votes.

How I Met Your Mother - S9E16

#4 - How Your Mother Met Me (Season 9 - Episode 16)

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In the 200th episode of "How I Met Your Mother," titled "How Your Mother Met Me," we finally get to hear the story of how Ted's future wife, The Mother, met him and what she has been up to for the past eight years. This episode received rave reviews, with a rating of 9.7/10, and it's not hard to see why. The Mother's character is beautifully crafted, fitting naturally into the gang's world and Ted's life. But she is not just a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow for Ted. She has her own journey, her own trials and tribulations, making Ted a light at the end of the tunnel for her as well.

In this episode, we learn about the connections between The Mother and various important people and places from the show's history. While some viewers found it a little too neat, it was appreciated how the show filled in the gaps with things we already knew about, like her night at the club or Ted's accidental class. But beyond the connections, the story of The Mother's journey is what truly captivated audiences. It's a story of a young woman who had lost a significant other and believed she had won the lottery on her first ticket, thinking she wouldn't get another chance at love. The episode did a wonderful job of showing her moving past her heartbreak, and Christina Miloti's performance of "La Vie En Rose" was a standout moment that conveyed both the melancholy and sweetness of her love.

This episode, which some viewers consider the best of the season or even better than the entire season, may have lacked in comedy, but it made up for it with its focus on the story and character development. It was a refreshing change to see love portrayed as something that isn't easy to come by and to get over. The episode successfully tied together Ted and The Mother's lives, showcasing how they unknowingly affected each other. Despite some negative reviews and doubts about the final season, this episode, along with the previous one, proved to be worth the wait. And with rumors of a spin-off series called "How I Met Your Father," centered around The Mother, many viewers wouldn't mind seeing more of her story unfold. Well done, "How I Met Your Mother." Keep up the great work.

The episode was rated 8.37 from 2886 votes.

How I Met Your Mother - S7E24

#3 - The Magician's Code: Part Two (Season 7 - Episode 24)

In the How I Met Your Mother episode "The Magician's Code: Part Two," Ted finds himself in a difficult situation when Victoria, his ex-girlfriend, approaches him on her wedding day and asks him to elope. The episode also follows Barney and Quinn, who get arrested by airport security while traveling to Hawaii. The reason? Barney refuses to open a mysterious box they are carrying.

While the episode has its share of plot choices that might not be everyone's cup of tea, it still manages to captivate viewers with its well-executed storyline. One of the main points of contention is Robin's premise that Ted is subconsciously setting himself up for failure in his romantic life. Some argue that this idea feels forced, especially when considering Ted's past relationships. However, the episode does offer some heartfelt moments, such as Ted's realization about not wanting to repeat the pain of being left at the altar and Victoria's moment of clarity.

Another highlight of the episode is Barney's proposal to Quinn, which some deem as the "coolest proposal ever." Although the extended series of setpieces involving the "magician's code" may not be everyone's cup of tea, it showcases Barney's devotion to Quinn and highlights their deep connection. The episode also includes fun subplots, such as Marshall and Lily's parenting standards and Robin's attempt to capture the perfect photograph.

Overall, "The Magician's Code: Part Two" may have its share of strange decisions, but it still manages to deliver heartfelt moments and keep viewers engaged. It also sets the stage for future tension and dramatic irony, particularly with the reveal that Robin is the bride "a little down the road." While this direction might not be everyone's favorite, it adds an element of curiosity and tragedy to the storyline. Ultimately, this episode offers a mix of emotions and storytelling choices that will leave fans wanting more.

The episode was rated 8.37 from 1005 votes.

How I Met Your Mother - S2E9

#2 - Slap Bet (Season 2 - Episode 9)

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In the "Slap Bet" episode of How I Met Your Mother, Ted and Barney have a lively discussion about their approaches to understanding women. Barney believes that the more you know, the more likely you are to discover a deal breaker, while Ted wants to know deal breakers upfront. Meanwhile, Robin refuses to go to the mall, leading to a secret that she's hiding.

This episode has it all - a mix of genuine relationship moments and hilarious antics. Ted and Robin's story gets a little exaggerated at times, with Ted being a bit of a jerk for revealing Robin's secret. However, the resolution has a sweet touch and is accompanied by a memorable pop song.

The true highlight of the episode is the Slap Bet subplot, filled with overconfidence from Barney, Marshall's emotional reactions to getting slapped, and Lily's role as the Slap Bet Commissioner. The episode leans into the idea that Robin's secret is a past career in adult films, adding to the trademark genuine-feeling games among friends that make How I Met Your Mother stand out.

This episode is a certified classic, despite the show's flaws, and it's hard not to sing along to "Let's Go to the Mall" - a fan favorite song from the series. So, let's all go to the mall today and enjoy this delightful episode!

The episode was rated 8.42 from 1402 votes.

How I Met Your Mother - S8E12

#1 - The Final Page: Part Two (Season 8 - Episode 12)

In the memorable episode "The Final Page: Part Two" from *How I Met Your Mother*, the holiday season brings a mix of emotions for the characters. Ted grapples with the decision to reveal Barney's scheme involving Patrice to Robin, adding a layer of tension to the festive atmosphere. Meanwhile, Marshall and Lily receive a precious gift of a night away from their son Marvin, only to face separation anxiety that threatens to disrupt their much-needed time together.

The episode showcases Ted's heartfelt speech to Robin about taking risks for love, highlighting his unwavering belief in finding genuine connections. Despite the comedic subplot of Marshall and Lily's day off antics, the core of the episode delves into Ted's romantic ideals and the complexities of relationships among the group of friends. As the narrative unfolds, viewers are drawn into a web of emotions and revelations that challenge the characters' perceptions of love and loyalty.

However, amidst the laughter and heartfelt moments, a controversial twist unfolds that divides fans and critics alike. The revelation of Barney's elaborate scheme to win Robin's heart through manipulation raises ethical questions about love and relationships. This pivotal moment in the show sparks debates about character integrity and storytelling choices, leaving a lasting impact on the series and its portrayal of romance. The episode's blend of humor, romance, and controversy solidifies its place as a standout installment in the *How I Met Your Mother* series.

The episode was rated 8.60 from 1408 votes.

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