Star Trek: Picard

10 Best Episodes of Star Trek: Picard - Season 1

Star Trek: Picard is an American web television series created for Paramount+ and first aired on 23 January 2020. It follows the adventures of the now-retired Admiral Jean-Luc Picard in the next chapter of his life, set twenty years after the events of Star Trek Nemesis. The series has been a big hit, with four seasons and counting. If you're looking for the best episodes of Star Trek: Picard, you've come to the right place. Here we've ranked the best episodes, so you can put together a great binge-watching list. Whether you're a long-time fan of the series or just starting out, you'll find something to enjoy in our list of the best episodes of Star Trek: Picard.

We've taken into account a variety of factors when making our rankings, including the episode's impact on the overall story, the characters involved, and the lasting impression it made on viewers. Every episode is special in its own way, but these are the ones that stand out. From the show's debut episode to the latest season, these are the best episodes of Star Trek: Picard.

So, settle in and prepare for a journey through time and space. These are the best episodes of Star Trek: Picard, the series that's brought the beloved character of Jean-Luc Picard back to life. Let's explore the universe and rank the top episodes of the show.

Written by Sophie and last updated on may 04, 2023.

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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Star Trek: Picard - S1E5

#10 - Stardust City Rag (Season 1 - Episode 5)

The episode "Stardust City Rag" of the show Star Trek: Picard finally starts to pick up the momentum, as the La Sirena crew embarks on a mission to search for Bruce Maddox. As fans of the Star Trek universe are often judgmental, fickle, and arguably nostalgic, this episode is a reminder that progress can be messy and technology moves ever forward.

The episode delves into the characters' motivations, losses, and how to move forward. Raffi, for example, reluctantly helps Picard, because she realizes she needs to make amends for abandoning her son. Seven assists Picard in his mission to rescue Maddox in order to fulfil her vendetta, as her faith in humanity has been shattered. Meanwhile, Dr Jurati takes drastic action after learning something horrific, while Soji's fate may be determined by her ability to self-evolve and overcome her "programming".

The episode was rated 7.70 from 3399 votes.

Star Trek: Picard - S1E2

#9 - Maps and Legends (Season 1 - Episode 2)

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In the first episode of Star Trek: Picard, titled "Maps and Legends," we are taken on a journey to uncover the mystery of Dahj and the implications her existence has on the Federation. Without Starfleet's support, Jean-Luc Picard is forced to rely on the help of Dr. Agnes Jurati and Raffi Musiker, a former colleague. Along the way, Picard is met with hidden enemies that are interested in discovering what his search for the truth about Dahj will yield.

The episode does a fantastic job of delivering top-notch storytelling, dialogue, and pacing, keeping viewers engaged even without any action sequences. The episode also delves into the backstories of Data, artificial intelligence, Romulans, and the Borg, while maintaining the tradition of high-ranking Starfleet personnel being "total assholes." Additionally, there is a hint of Picard's mysterious neurological disorder, Irumodic Syndrome, that was first introduced in the finale of Star Trek: The Next Generation.

The episode was rated 7.71 from 4011 votes.

Star Trek: Picard - S1E3

#8 - The End Is the Beginning (Season 1 - Episode 3)

In the episode, "The End Is the Beginning", it is revealed that Soji has a special nature that she is completely unaware of. After rehashing the past with Raffi, Picard seeks out others to join him in his search for Bruce Maddox, including former Starfleet officer CristΓ³bal Rios. Meanwhile, the episode raises a lot of questions, some of which include whether Daj and Soji are like Data and Lore; what Momma Asher's role is; and why Hugh and other reclaimed Borg drones still have facial scarring. Another suggestion for the Romulan hit squad is for them to beam in a solitary suicide mercenary the next time, rather than an entire crew, to eliminate both the target and the evidence.

At the end of the episode, Commodore Oh goes all in with a full house and runs head on into a four of a kind monkey stomp. Dr Jurati's enthusiasm for joining Picard's mission also felt too genuine and Picard's respect for Christobal was palpable. Overall, it was an enjoyable episode and it raises a lot of questions that will need to be answered as the season progresses.

The episode was rated 7.78 from 3750 votes.

Star Trek: Picard - S1E4

#7 - Absolute Candor (Season 1 - Episode 4)

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Absolute Candor was a firecracker of an episode that left viewers encouraged about where the show could go from here. Picard's strained relationship with Elnor, a Romulan he befriended fourteen years earlier, is filled with regret and broken promises of the Federation. Meanwhile, Narek and Soji's "spies in love, who don't trust each other" dynamic is limp and their bizarre incest vibes give viewers an uncomfortable feeling. But Seven of Nine makes a cool entrance and a badass line to join the show with. Additionally, the Bird of Prey is revealed to be a Warbird, showing that the show is full of surprises and mystery.

The episode was rated 7.81 from 3544 votes.

Star Trek: Picard - S1E9

#6 - Et in Arcadia Ego (1) (Season 1 - Episode 9)

In the episode Et in Arcadia Ego (1) of Star Trek: Picard, the crew of the La Sirena arrive on the planet Coppelius, home of Soji, only to find that their arrival brings even more danger. It is a thrilling episode that is filled with references to the Star Trek franchise, from the giant flowers in space to the rocky setting of the android compound. The emotional scene between Picard and Raffi is particularly touching and shows the evolution of Picard's character from his time on The Next Generation.

The surprise appearance of Brent Spiner as another Soong relative brings a feeling of contrivance, yet is still welcomed by the audience. The crew of the La Sirena are endearing and viewers are left wanting more of them. This episode is setting up a strong ending for the show and it leaves viewers with a sense of anticipation for what is to come.

The episode was rated 7.83 from 3103 votes.

Star Trek: Picard - S1E7

#5 - Nepenthe (Season 1 - Episode 7)

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The latest episode of Star Trek: Picard, entitled "Nepenthe", saw Picard and Soji transport to the planet Nepenthe, home to some old and trusted friends. As the rest of the La Sirena crew attempt to join them, Picard helps Soji make sense of her recently unlocked memories. Meanwhile, Hugh and Elnor are left on the Borg cube and must face an angered Narissa.

This episode was widely praised, with many viewers noting the return of Jonathan Frakes as Will Riker and the fantastic dialogue, decor and acting from the family on Nepenthe. Some viewers were less impressed with the plot involving the two Romulans, but overall this episode was the best of the series so far. With the suggestion of spin-off series involving characters such as Laris, Seven and the Fenris Rangers, Elnor the Space Elf and Kestra, the future of the Star Trek universe looks to be in good hands.

The episode was rated 7.93 from 3199 votes.

Star Trek: Picard - S1E6

#4 - The Impossible Box (Season 1 - Episode 6)

In the episode "The Impossible Box" of the show Star Trek: Picard, the crew track Soji to the Borg cube in Romulan space, bringing up haunting memories for Picard. Meanwhile, Narek believes he has found a way to safely exploit Soji for information. Patrick Stewart's performance is on point in this episode, with Picard's emotions ranging from anger to PTSD to genuine happiness. His face lining up with the classic image of Locutus is one of the most arresting shots ever done in Star Trek. The crew of the La Sirena, including Raffi and Elnor, are also well developed and their moments together feel genuine. Agnes is a mystery, but her own emotional turmoil is played well and viewers can expect more to be revealed. The episode also includes a surprise glimpse of the Borg Queen and a reference to the Voyager episode "Prime Factors."

The scenes with Narek and his sister continue to be repetitive, but the Romulan meditation exploring the dream is reminiscent of classic Trek. Narek's pain at [spoiler]leaving Soji to die[/spoiler] is a step up for his character development. Picard's first impression on Soji is strong, and his "please, my friends, choose to live" is an unforgettable quote. The secret Borg room also adds to the Sci-Fi/technology and action of the episode. It is clear that Picard has not yet recovered from his trauma with the Borg, but his strides in overcoming it are evident. The episode is full of emotion and well-crafted backstory, making it one of the most memorable of the show.

The episode was rated 7.94 from 3288 votes.

Star Trek: Picard - S1E8

#3 - Broken Pieces (Season 1 - Episode 8)

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The episode "Broken Pieces" of Star Trek: Picard was filled with suspense and unexpected turns. One of the most unforgettable moments of the episode came when Seven of Nine uttered the words "We are Borg" which gave viewers goosebumps. Despite some reviews that the pacing was slow, many viewers found the episode quite effective in creating tension and intrigue. Elnor's summoning of the Fenris Rangers and Seven of Nine's return was also a welcome surprise. It is also interesting to learn that Narissa's mother is behind the breaking of the Borg cube. Moreover, the warning about the Destroyers seemed quite improbable at first, but became more intriguing as the episode progressed. The episode also features some memorable quotes from Picard, such as "Fear is the great destroyer". The return of the Borg also made for a thrilling scene, even though it was brief.

The episode also features some interesting character development. Raffi proves to be quite productive while sober. Rios is also seen to be slowly healing from his brokenness. Agnes, on the other hand, is still very broken and likely won't get better any time soon. Soji's entrance during the discussion between Picard and Agnes was also well-timed. The conversation between Agnes and Soji was also quite revealing. Lastly, the mention of "somebody really bad" in the discussion about The Destroyers hints at a greater force in the universe, rather than synthetic life forms.

The episode was rated 7.96 from 3163 votes.

Star Trek: Picard - S1E1

#2 - Remembrance (Season 1 - Episode 1)

Remembrance, the first episode of the show Star Trek: Picard, opened up to much lower expectations than what it delivered. The story was compelling, and it followed closely to the Star Trek canon. It was the perfect setting to open up a brand new chapter in the world of Star Trek. This episode was aptly titled Remembrance, setting the stage for great stories to come. The tech and places were very cool, and if the show can keep up the enthusiasm and energy, we are in for one amazing show.

The one worry I have is with Patrick Stewart and his health. He is an amazing actor that is driving the story and the show's existence revolves around him. He is one of the legends of the Star Trek world and the show is relying heavily on past relationships to build relevance. It remains to be seen if this will work, and if the new actors will be able to find their chemistry.

Nevertheless, I am going to continue following this show. There is a lot of potential here, and I am going to take it for what it is. All I can say is that I, and many others, are excited to see what the journey of Jean-Luc Picard holds in store for us.

The episode was rated 8.07 from 4509 votes.

Star Trek: Picard - S1E10

#1 - Et in Arcadia Ego (2) (Season 1 - Episode 10)

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The season finale of Star Trek: Picard, Et in Arcadia Ego (2), saw a final confrontation on the synthetics' homeworld, Coppelius, between Picard and his team and the Romulans, as well as the synths who sought to protect their existence. This episode was very emotionally charged, with many viewers expressing how moved they were by the show. There was also much nostalgia for the original series as well as admiration for Sir Patrick Stewart's performance.

The season finale managed to fulfil the themes established in the title sequence of the first episode. Picard, a broken man, needed to find closure, form a new family, and find purpose. The show managed to do this while also introducing a fantastic ensemble cast that viewers have come to love and appreciate. While the character of Commodore Oh was a bit over the top, it did not take away from the emotional power of the episode.

The episode was rated 8.10 from 3199 votes.

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