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Star Trek: 13 best Strange New Worlds episodes ranked from worst to best

Strange New Worlds has 20 incredible episodes, but which ones are truly considered the best ones? Let's take a look at 13 fantastic episodes and how they rank against each other.

By Camila Domingues

Pictured: Rebecca Romijn as Una, Anson Mount as Pike and Ethan Peck as Spock of the Paramount+ original series STAR TREK: STRANGE NEW WORLDS. Photo Cr: Marni Grossman/Paramount+ ©2022 ViacomCBS. All Rights Reserved.
Pictured: Rebecca Romijn as Una, Anson Mount as Pike and Ethan Peck as Spock of the Paramount+ original series STAR TREK: STRANGE NEW WORLDS. Photo Cr: Marni Grossman/Paramount+ ©2022 ViacomCBS. All Rights Reserved. /
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5. "Charades" (season 2, episode 5)

"Charades" stands out as a testament to Strange New Worlds' ability to effectively blend humor with character depth, earning its place as a favorite. This episode is yet another one of many that feel like a breath of fresh air - it offers a playful yet insightful deep dive into the complexities of Spock's character. What sets "Charades" apart is how it cleverly uses a seemingly lighthearted scenario to shed light on Spock's constant struggle with his dual heritage as a half-human and half-Vulcan. The episode’s brilliance lies in its ability to turn a potential cliché - Spock becoming fully human - into a fresh and engaging storyline, something that long-time Star Trek fans might have thought they had seen all variations of.

Ethan Peck's portrayal of Spock in this unique situation is nothing short of remarkable. He truly brings a distinct and strong performance, balancing the rigid Vulcan demeanor with an undertone of human emotion that he struggles to let surface. This internal conflict reaches a peak in a moment of catharsis that feels satisfying, offering viewers a deeper understanding of Spock and who he is. The episode also gets its charm because of its emphasis on lighter storytelling, proving that Strange New Worlds excels not just in high-stakes drama, but also in episodes where the tension is dialed back and we see character-driven narratives.

"Charades" is a perfect example of how the series succeeds in adding depth and humor to the iconic Star Trek universe, making it a memorable episode that resonates with both new and longtime fans.