Stargate Atlantis

10 Best Episodes of Stargate Atlantis

Step through the Stargate and enter a world of adventure, mystery, and danger with the hit TV show, Stargate Atlantis. Join Dr. Elizabeth Weir and Major Sheppard as they lead a scientific expedition to the ancient abandoned city of Atlantis in the Pegasus Galaxy. But what they find there is far from what they expected. Unable to contact Earth, the team must not only uncover the secrets of Atlantis, but also face a deadly enemy - The Wraith. Hungry for new prey, these formidable foes make survival a constant battle for our heroes.

With its captivating storyline and thrilling action, Stargate Atlantis has captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Immerse yourself in the rich mythology of this beloved show as you follow the Atlantis Team on their quest for survival and discovery. But it's not just the intense battles and ancient secrets that make this show a must-watch. It's also the strong bonds formed between the team members and the alliances they forge with the locals, like Teyla Emmagan, who becomes a valuable ally in their fight against the Wraith.

Now is the perfect time to dive into Stargate Atlantis. Whether you're a sci-fi fanatic or just looking for your next binge-worthy TV obsession, this show has it all. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and get ready to be transported to a world beyond your wildest imagination. Stargate Atlantis is available on Syfy, so you can start the adventure today. Don't miss out on six seasons of thrilling episodes that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Written by Sophie and last updated on nov 08, 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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Stargate Atlantis - S3E14

#15 - Tao of Rodney (Season 3 - Episode 14)

In the episode "Tao of Rodney" from the hit TV show Stargate Atlantis, things take a dramatic turn when Rodney gains superhuman powers from an Ancient device. As his intelligence reaches new heights, his life is also hanging in the balance. Will he be able to unlock the secret to ascending and save himself from impending doom?

Fans of the show have hailed this episode as one of their all-time favorites. With its gripping storyline and intense character development, it's no wonder viewers were captivated. But amidst the praise, some eagle-eyed fans couldn't help but notice a small detail that seemed out of place. Ronon, a beloved character, is seen grabbing a bottle of Evian water, causing some confusion. Why would Atlantis, situated in a different galaxy, import Earth-branded bottled water? Nevertheless, this minor blip didn't detract from the overall execution of the story, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats.

For those who are familiar with classic sci-fi shows, you may notice some similarities between "Tao of Rodney" and a Star Trek episode called "The Nth Degree." While there may be parallels between the two, Stargate Atlantis puts its own unique twist on the concept, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre. So buckle up and get ready for an action-packed episode filled with suspense, excitement, and the exploration of extraordinary powers.

The episode was rated 8.00 from 611 votes.

Stargate Atlantis - S4E2

#14 - Lifeline (3) (Season 4 - Episode 2)

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In this action-packed episode of Stargate Atlantis titled "Lifeline (3)," Colonel Sheppard and his team are faced with a daring mission that could change the fate of their entire expedition. Their objective? To steal a coveted Z.P.M. power module from the formidable Replicators. With the fate of Atlantis hanging in the balance, the stakes couldn't be higher.

But there's a twist. The success of this dangerous mission relies on the unlikely assistance of Dr. Weir, who has found herself in a compromising situation. As tensions rise and the pressure mounts, the team must navigate through treacherous territory, both physically and emotionally, to secure the power module and ensure the survival of their home away from home.

Get ready for a thrilling rollercoaster ride as Colonel Sheppard and his team push the boundaries of what they thought possible. Will they be able to pull off this high-stakes heist? Tune in to find out in this heart-pounding episode of Stargate Atlantis, where alliances will be tested, loyalties will be questioned, and the fate of Atlantis hangs in the balance.

The episode was rated 8.01 from 659 votes.

Stargate Atlantis - S2E19

#13 - Inferno (Season 2 - Episode 19)

In the thrilling episode "Inferno" of Stargate Atlantis, Sheppard's team finds themselves in a race against time to save a civilization on the brink of annihilation. The tension builds as they discover that a super-volcano is about to erupt, threatening to wipe out everything in its path. But that's not all - just as they are preparing for evacuation, disaster strikes when the Stargate is destroyed, leaving the team trapped and their only way home gone.

One highlight of this episode is the appearance of Brandy Ledford, who adds an extra layer of excitement to the storyline. Fans were pleasantly surprised to see her on screen and wished that she had more screen time. Watching McKay, the bumbling genius, stumble and fumble around her made for some hilarious moments that added a touch of levity to the intense situation.

While some viewers may question the scientific accuracy of the super-volcano's impact, it's important to remember that this is science fiction. While a supervolcano wouldn't necessarily render an entire planet uninhabitable, the devastation it would cause can't be ignored. For the characters in the episode, their survival hinges on finding a way to overcome the destruction and find new land to settle on. "Inferno" is an action-packed episode that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the team's next move in their fight for survival.

The episode was rated 8.02 from 598 votes.

Stargate Atlantis - S1E2

#12 - Rising (2) (Season 1 - Episode 2)

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In the episode "Rising (2)" of Stargate Atlantis, Sheppard is determined to rescue Colonel Sumner, Teyla, and the others who have been captured by the terrifying Wraith. The Wraith prove to be a much scarier enemy than the Goa'uld, giving the show a darker and gothic twist. However, some fans were disappointed to find that the Hulu version of the episode was abridged, missing important scenes and leaving them with unanswered questions. Despite this, viewers couldn't help but crave a delicious turkey sandwich while watching the intense action unfold. And as for the characters' decision to stay in the city despite the power loss and flooding, it turns out there's a surprising twist that explains their choice. Stay tuned to find out more!

The episode was rated 8.04 from 426 votes.

Stargate Atlantis - S1E1

#11 - Rising (1) (Season 1 - Episode 1)

In the premiere episode of Stargate Atlantis, titled "Rising," a brand new Stargate team sets off on a daring mission to a distant galaxy. Their objective? To uncover a fabled lost city that has captured the imaginations of many. Little do they know, this journey will not only lead them to their destination, but also introduce them to a dangerous and formidable new enemy. Get ready to be captivated by the thrill and excitement of this epic adventure!

Fans of the series are in for a treat as they embark on a major re-watch of Stargate Atlantis. Whether you're reliving the excitement or experiencing it for the first time, this episode promises to deliver. What sets Atlantis apart is the fresh and cutting-edge technology that permeates every aspect of the show. From the sleek and modern design to the endless possibilities of new adventures, be prepared to be transported to a world where the future is right at your fingertips.

One of the standout features of this premiere is the updated and improved Stargate in Atlantis. Gone are the clunky and outdated designs of the past. Instead, viewers are treated to a visually appealing and more advanced Stargate. The sleek and polished look adds to the overall appeal of the show, making it even more enjoyable to watch. So buckle up and get ready to be swept away by the exciting and visually stunning world of Stargate Atlantis!

The episode was rated 8.05 from 1144 votes.

Stargate Atlantis - S2E20

#10 - Allies (1) (Season 2 - Episode 20)

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In this thrilling episode of Stargate Atlantis titled "Allies," Michael and his Wraith faction make a surprising entrance at Atlantis. Their proposal? An alliance that involves using a retrovirus to transform their Wraith enemies into prey. The stakes are high as the fate of both factions hangs in the balance. Will the team at Atlantis accept this risky proposition? The suspense is palpable as the episode unfolds.

Fans had mixed reactions to this episode. Some praised the writing and the intense dialogue between the characters, which kept them on the edge of their seats. The interactions with the Wraith were particularly well-executed, leaving viewers guessing about the Wraith's true intentions. This action-packed installment is hailed as one of the standout episodes of Stargate Atlantis, with very little downtime and a gripping plot that keeps the audience engaged.

However, not all feedback was positive. Some fans pointed out inconsistencies in the storyline, such as the confusion surrounding the non-networked, firewalled computer and the potential consequences of the retrovirus. Despite these minor flaws, the overall consensus is that "Allies" is a must-watch for fans of the show. As the first part of a multi-part episode, anticipation is high for the next installment. Will it live up to the expectations set by this exciting episode? Only time will tell.

The episode was rated 8.05 from 615 votes.

Stargate Atlantis - S4E20

#9 - The Last Man (1) (Season 4 - Episode 20)

In the Stargate Atlantis episode "The Last Man (1)", Sheppard returns to the city after a mission, only to find it completely abandoned. The once bustling Atlantis is now eerily quiet, with all systems dead. But that's not all - instead of the familiar ocean, Sheppard is met with vast sand dunes stretching as far as the eye can see. The mystery deepens as he tries to unravel what has happened to the city and its inhabitants.

Fans of Stargate Atlantis will be delighted to see Colonel Carter making her appearance in this episode. Although her screen time in this season is lower than expected, her presence adds an exciting dynamic to the story. Another familiar face that might catch your attention is Robert Picardo, who dons a red uniform in this episode. A small detail, but for fans of Star Trek: Voyager, it's a fun nod.

"The Last Man (1)" is an exceptional "clip show" in Stargate history. Unlike traditional clip shows that rely on old footage, this episode presents new material in the form of vignettes tied together with low-budget scenes. The storytelling style is engaging, although some fans may have preferred a different ending, with Sheppard going into stasis and leaving the rest for the next season.

Delightfully dark and reminiscent of post-apocalyptic stories like "On The Beach," this episode captivates viewers with its apocalyptic atmosphere. However, some fans felt that the season 4 finale, including this episode, was a bit of a letdown. With multiple storylines involving wraith, replicators, and Michael, it seemed like the season lacked direction. Despite this, "The Last Man (1)" is still a thrilling and thought-provoking episode that will leave fans wanting more.

The episode was rated 8.07 from 599 votes.

Stargate Atlantis - S3E20

#8 - First Strike (1) (Season 3 - Episode 20)

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In the Stargate Atlantis episode titled "First Strike (1)", the city of Atlantis finds itself under siege after Earth launches a preemptive attack against a formidable enemy's homeworld. An unstoppable energy weapon brings chaos and excitement as space battles unfold on screen, showcasing the thrilling action that TV does so well. As the plot thickens, viewers can't help but notice the clever casting choices, with Jewel Staite's new character adding a shiny and refreshing touch to the show. It's fascinating to see the interconnectedness between different sci-fi series, with callbacks to Firefly evident in both Stargate Atlantis and Stargate SG-1.

One intriguing question that arises from this episode is the peculiar positioning of the city of Atlantis. Instead of flying along the axis aligned with the engines below, it ends up flying sideways, parallel to the six piers. This unexpected twist leaves viewers wondering about the logic behind this decision. As the episode unfolds, fans are also treated to a delightful surprise with the appearance of Kaylee from Firefly, adding an extra layer of nostalgia and excitement to the storyline. Tune in to experience the thrilling space battles, captivating casting choices, and the mysteries that await in "First Strike (1)".

The episode was rated 8.08 from 642 votes.

Stargate Atlantis - S2E1

#7 - The Siege (3) (Season 2 - Episode 1)

In the thrilling episode of Stargate Atlantis titled "The Siege (3)," the Daedalus swoops in to defend Atlantis from the relentless Wraith attack. But buckle up, because it seems like even more trouble is on its way! The team uncovers a shocking discovery: an even larger armada is heading straight for them. Will they be able to survive this double threat?

Fans of the show will be thrilled to see Mitch Pileggi, who plays Skinner, making an appearance in this episode. His presence adds an extra layer of excitement to the already intense storyline. And speaking of intense, there's a memorable moment when a Marine gives McKay a look that screams "Shut the front door!" It's the kind of tension that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

While "The Siege (3)" is an overall great episode, some fans have expressed their doubts about Ford's character development. They find it hard to believe that his drug addiction would cause such a drastic change in him, especially considering the mental and emotional conditioning that comes with military training. It's a point of contention that adds an interesting layer to the episode's storyline.

The episode was rated 8.08 from 712 votes.

Stargate Atlantis - S3E11

#6 - The Return (2) (Season 3 - Episode 11)

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In "The Return (2)," the Atlantis team takes matters into their own hands, defying orders to save their city from the clutches of the Replicators. But that's not all they're after - they're also on a mission to rescue General O'Neill and Richard Woolsey, who find themselves trapped in the occupied city. This action-packed episode is full of suspense and surprises, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.

Fans of Stargate Atlantis will be thrilled to see the return of Richard Woolsey, one of the show's beloved characters. His presence adds an extra layer of excitement to the episode. However, some viewers felt that "The Return (2)" was missing something. The absence of the Ancients, a key element in the show, left some disappointed. It's a shame that such a promising plot point was overshadowed by other aspects of the episode.

Despite some criticisms, "The Return (2)" still manages to deliver the thrilling and engaging storytelling that Stargate fans have come to expect. It's another solid installment in the series, even if it doesn't quite live up to its title's promise. So grab your popcorn and get ready for a wild ride as the Atlantis team fights against the odds to reclaim their city and rescue their comrades.

The episode was rated 8.08 from 623 votes.

Stargate Atlantis - S4E11

#5 - Be All My Sins Remember'd (2) (Season 4 - Episode 11)

In the latest episode of Stargate Atlantis, titled "Be All My Sins Remember'd (2)", the Atlantis team is faced with a daunting task - finding an alliance with a fleet of Wraith ships to combat the Replicator threat. As tension rises, the team must come up with a plan that could potentially save them all. Will they be able to extinguish the Replicators once and for all?

Fans of Stargate Atlantis will be excited to see Colonel Carter making her appearance once again, with this episode marking her seventh out of the total eleven episodes so far this season. It seems like the show is taking a turn, and viewers can expect to see more of Amanda Tapping in the remaining episodes. However, some fans have raised an interesting point about her wardrobe choice - why is she wearing a leather jacket instead of her usual USAF uniform while on duty?

With intriguing plot developments and the promise of a thrilling alliance, this episode of Stargate Atlantis is sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Stay tuned to find out how the Atlantis team navigates their way through this challenging mission and whether they can successfully put an end to the Replicator threat.

The episode was rated 8.11 from 605 votes.

Stargate Atlantis - S3E7

#4 - Common Ground (Season 3 - Episode 7)

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In the Stargate Atlantis episode "Common Ground," Colonel Sheppard finds himself in a precarious situation. He becomes the prisoner of a Genii commander, but that's not all - he's also trapped with a Wraith who is desperate for sustenance after being separated from his hive. This episode introduces a fascinating character named Todd, who quickly becomes a fan favorite.

One of the reasons why Colonel Sheppard is such a compelling character is his ability to set aside his prejudices when it matters most. He may have his reservations about the Wraith, but he's willing to put them aside in order to survive. Plus, Sheppard has a knack for making friends with just about anyone, even if they're not from his species. It's a testament to the human capacity for forming connections outside of our own kind.

However, not everyone is impressed with the decisions made in this episode. Some viewers believe that Ronon should have been reprimanded for his disrespectful behavior, and that Sheppard's choice to spare Koya was a mistake that now haunts him. Additionally, some fans criticize Weir for making what they perceive as the wrong choice in keeping Ladon in Atlantis, suggesting that she doesn't truly prioritize Sheppard's well-being.

Despite these differing opinions, one thing is for certain - the introduction of the Wraith character adds an interesting dynamic to the show. While some viewers found his story arc to be somewhat predictable, it was still a highly enjoyable aspect of the episode. Plus, viewers are treated to new information about the Wraith, which may have been previously known to some or simply seemed obvious. Overall, "Common Ground" is an episode that leaves viewers on the edge of their seats, eager to see what happens next in the world of Stargate Atlantis.

The episode was rated 8.11 from 576 votes.

Stargate Atlantis - S4E17

#3 - Midway (Season 4 - Episode 17)

In the Stargate Atlantis episode "Midway," Teal'c pays a visit to Atlantis to offer guidance to the headstrong Ronon, who is facing a review by the I.O.A. However, their plans take an unexpected turn when the Wraith launch an invasion on the Midway space station, with Earth as their ultimate target. As the Wraith threat looms, Teal'c and Ronon must put aside their differences and join forces to protect their home.

Fans of the show may find Ronon's initial hostility towards Teal'c a bit surprising. In fact, some viewers feel that it is out of character for him to display such animosity before understanding the purpose of Teal'c's presence in Atlantis. Perhaps it would have made more sense if Ronon had been open-minded or even neutral towards Teal'c until the true reason for his visit was revealed - as Ronon's "interview coach" for the IOA evaluations. Nonetheless, despite this minor inconsistency, the episode delivers plenty of adrenaline-pumping action and maintains an exceptional pace.

While "Midway" may not be the most captivating storyline in Stargate Atlantis, it compensates with its thrilling action sequences. The episode keeps viewers on the edge of their seats as the Wraith invasion poses a grave threat to Earth. With Teal'c and Ronon forced to work together, the episode promises an exciting display of teamwork and bravery. So, buckle up and get ready for a rollercoaster ride of adventure in "Midway."

The episode was rated 8.12 from 576 votes.

Stargate Atlantis - S1E20

#2 - The Siege (2) (Season 1 - Episode 20)

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In the action-packed episode "The Siege (2)" of Stargate Atlantis, a new military contingent from Earth swoops in to take command of the city and protect it from the imminent Wraith attack. With the stakes higher than ever, tensions rise as our beloved characters face their biggest challenge yet.

Fans of the show have been eagerly awaiting this episode, and it does not disappoint. Viewers can't help but question the usefulness of Carson, who seems to struggle to make a meaningful contribution. Will he step up and prove his worth, or continue to be a source of frustration for the team?

In addition, fans are thrilled to finally see Weir demonstrate her expertise in a crucial moment. It's about time she gets to shine after so many episodes in both Stargate Atlantis and SG1. With its gripping storyline and intense action, "The Siege (2)" is undoubtedly one of the standout episodes of the season. Don't miss out on the excitement!

The episode was rated 8.13 from 656 votes.

Stargate Atlantis - S5E20

#1 - Enemy at the Gate (Season 5 - Episode 20)

In the Stargate Atlantis episode "Enemy at the Gate," the team faces a new threat when they discover that a rogue Wraith has acquired powerful Z.P.M.s to fuel a formidable new hive ship. What makes this episode intriguing is the multiple storylines that are pursued, leaving viewers uncertain about which avenue will lead to success. Additionally, a new device at Atlantis adds an element of convenience, but raises questions about the outcome. Despite the cancellation of the series, fans continue to express their disappointment and hope for its continuation.

One viewer comment highlights the attention to detail in the show, specifically pointing out the bad kerning in the text displayed on screen. While it may seem like a small detail, it's interesting to see how fans notice and discuss these aspects of the production. Another comment reflects on the convenience of a particular plot device, which was introduced earlier in the episode to avoid it feeling too sudden or contrived in a potential movie format.

As a series finale, "Enemy at the Gate" is considered to be pretty good. However, it's noted that there wasn't a clear warning or opportunity to tie up loose ends like the finale of its predecessor, Stargate SG-1. The producers had hoped for a continuation in movie format, which unfortunately never materialized. This non-ending serves as a reminder of the show's potential and leaves fans longing for more.

The episode was rated 8.29 from 638 votes.

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