12 best Star Trek episodes in the franchise of all time

11) "The Elysian Kingdom" (Star Trek: Strange New Worlds)

This episode is both a delightful and depressing gem in the Star Trek universe, offering a refreshing and imaginative twist to the franchise's storied legacy. The U.S.S. Enterprise, a beacon of futuristic technology and exploration, is magically transformed into a medieval kingdom straight out of a fairy tale. The crew abandon their usual posts and uniforms and find themselves playing roles in a storybook, complete with royal garb and dramatic titles and entrances. It's a playful departure from the usual starship corridors and alien encounters, giving the cast a chance to stretch their acting chops in charmingly unexpected ways.

This episode masterfully blends humor, heart, and the art of letting go into one episode, making it not just an entertaining watch, but a testament to the series' ability to entertain viewers while giving us touching life lessons (and keeping the Kleenex market going). With its creative storytelling and surprises, "The Elysian Kingdom" stands out as a shining example of Star Trek's enduring charm and its capacity to constantly reinvent itself while staying true to its roots.

12) "Coming Home" (Star Trek: Discovery)

This episode is beautiful and stands out as a shining gem in the vast universe of Star Trek for good reason. In it, we find a mix of heart-pounding action, rich storytelling, and emotional depth that grabs you right from the start and does not let go, much like a needy ex. "Coming Home" is a rollercoaster of feelings, masterfully combining the series' complex themes of exploration, camaraderie, and the enduring human spirit. The crew of the Discovery is portrayed as a family, each member bringing their unique flavor to the narrative, making you laugh, cry, and cheer for them equally.

The episode's climax is very emotionally intense, seamlessly combining high-stakes drama with touching moments, leaving a mark on your memory. It's like a perfectly cooked steak of sci-fi drama - tender and juicy with just the right amount of sizzle (I am hungry). The characters are more than just space explorers, they're like old friends, each with their unique quirks and charms, making you root for them every step of the way.

As Discovery and Strange New Worlds are still going, I can only sit in anticipation to see where these two incredible series will take us to next.