The newest episode of Rick and Morty Season 8 is an action-packed sci-fi family adventure! While most escapades involve the titular duo, a more unique pair takes this week’s spotlight. Rick and Space Beth team up to take down a clever yet psychotic foe. They even join forces with members of the enemy faction to ensure the universe’s safety. And the entire time, the alcoholic scientist subtly works to become a better father. Is Rick trying to change for the better, or is this a one-time thing?
New Rick and Morty Episode
Titled Valkyrick, this brand-new Rick and Morty episode opens with Space Beth on a mission. She’s attempting to assassinate the Gromflomite queen, but someone beat her to it. Matters worsen when guards discover her, and her ship ends up destroyed. Her allies in The Defiance refuse to help her because she went rogue. Low on options, Space Beth calls Rick to aid her. He does so without hesitation and even assists in taking down some soldiers.
Rick and Space Beth arrive at The Defiance’s headquarters, but the rebels chastise her. Rick defends her, though his words result in his daughter getting let go. Despite her situation, Space Beth wants information about who killed the queen. Ricks offers to help, and they discover a disgraced royal medical officer did it. They track him down and learn he’s using a fungus to turn drones into monsters. He also plans to spread his virus with a robotic double of the queen.
After losing the mad doctor, Rick creates a plan to stop the threat. They succeed despite some mishaps, but the fungus infects Space Beth. To save his daughter, Rick allies with the Gromflomite military to create a cure. The unlikely alliance afterward eradicates the virus’s source with help from Birdperson and his offspring. This Rick and Morty episode ends with the Defiance and the Gromflomites making peace.
Rick Stepping Up Father Game
Rick and Morty fans know the titular scientist often keeps others at arm’s length. He, unfortunately, does the same thing to his daughter Beth, leading to a strained relationship. This dynamic also carries over to Space Beth, who is almost a reflection of him. Lately, Rick realized he’s a lousy father and has been quietly changing. And the extent of his growth becomes apparent in this newest episode.
Rick willingly came to his spaceward daughter’s rescue when she couldn’t escape the Gromlomite ship. And he defended her against the Defiance rebels’ criticism without a moment’s hesitation. The scientist even displayed genuine concern when the mutating fungus infected her. He also admitted to Birdperson that he wanted to succeed at reconnecting with his child. These actions are clear signs he’s trying his best to be a better parent. Hopefully, this growth remains permanent and returns in the following episodes of Season 8.
Final Verdict and Thoughts
I give this Rick and Morty episode a perfect rating of 10! Epic sci-fi action, witty banter, cultural references, and character growth filled its entire duration. The rest of the family was absent, but everything else made up for it. I especially enjoyed how well Rick and Space Beth played off each other. And I’m exceptionally proud to see him make an effort to become a better father. Hopefully, we’ll see more of this next week or in a later Season 8 installment.
