Star Trek: The Next Generation (TNG) premiered in 1987, following the success of the original Star Trek series in the 1960s. It quickly became a cultural phenomenon, attracting a dedicated fan base with its innovative storytelling, complex characters, and forward-thinking themes.
The show followed the crew of the USS Enterprise-D, led by Captain Jean-Luc Picard, as they explored new worlds and encountered strange new life forms in the 24th century. Over its seven-season run, TNG delivered some of the most memorable episodes in the Star Trek franchise, ranging from action-packed adventures to introspective explorations of the human condition.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the 10 best episodes of Star Trek: The Next Generation, exploring what made them stand out and why they continue to resonate with audiences today.
As ever, you can drop your thoughts in the comments below, and be aware, that there are spoilers below!
“The Best of Both Worlds” – Parts I and II
“The Best of Both Worlds” is perhaps the most iconic episode of TNG, and for good reason. It saw the Enterprise crew facing their most formidable adversary yet: the Borg. These cybernetic aliens had previously been established as a powerful and nearly unbeatable force in the Star Trek universe, and their attack on Earth in this two-part episode upped the stakes to an unprecedented level.
Not only did the Borg pose an immediate threat to the Enterprise and its crew, but they also managed to assimilate Captain Picard, turning him into one of their own. The episode delivered high-stakes drama, incredible visual effects, and outstanding performances from the entire cast, especially Patrick Stewart as Picard and Jonathan Frakes as Commander Riker.
“Yesterday’s Enterprise”
“Yesterday’s Enterprise” is a standout episode for a number of reasons. For one, it features the return of Denise Crosby as Lieutenant Tasha Yar, who was killed off in the first season of TNG. The episode sees the Enterprise-C, a ship lost 22 years earlier, suddenly appearing in the present day, causing a ripple effect that changes the course of history.
The episode explores themes of sacrifice, duty, and the consequences of one’s actions, and is notable for its darker tone and alternate timeline setting. “Yesterday’s Enterprise” is a fan-favorite and a testament to the show’s willingness to take risks and push the boundaries of what Star Trek could be.
“The Inner Light”
“The Inner Light” is a beautiful and poignant episode that showcases the show’s ability to tell deeply personal and introspective stories. In the episode, Captain Picard is knocked unconscious and wakes up to find himself living the life of a man named Kamin on a distant planet. As he lives out an entire lifetime in the span of just 25 minutes, Picard learns important lessons about love, loss, and the fragility of life.
Patrick Stewart’s performance in this episode is nothing short of extraordinary, and the episode has become a fan-favourite for its emotional impact and storytelling prowess.
“Chain of Command” – Parts I and II
“Chain of Command” is a two-part episode that sees Captain Picard go undercover to infiltrate a Cardassian base, while the Enterprise is commanded by Captain Jellico. The episode features outstanding performances by Patrick Stewart and Ronny Cox as Jellico, and is notable for its exploration of the ethical dilemmas that arise in wartime.
The episode also deals with themes of loyalty, trust, and the limits of authority, and is a great example of how Star Trek turns complex issues into a thoughtful and engaging work of art.
“Darmok”
“Darmok” is a unique and innovative episode of Star Trek. The episode sees the Enterprise crew attempting to communicate with a race of aliens known as the Tamarians, who speak in metaphors and allusions that are difficult for the crew to understand.
The episode features outstanding performances from Patrick Stewart and guest star Paul Winfield, and is notable for its exploration of the barriers that exist between different cultures and the importance of finding common ground.
“The Measure of a Man”
“The Measure of a Man” is an episode that deals with the complex issue of artificial intelligence and personhood. In the episode, the Enterprise crew must defend Data, an android officer, in a legal trial to determine whether he is property or a sentient being with rights.
The episode features a standout performance from Brent Spiner as Data, as well as powerful themes of identity, individuality, and the nature of consciousness. “The Measure of a Man” is widely regarded as one of the best Star Trek: The Next Generation episodes.
“The Offspring”
“The Offspring” is another episode that deals with the issue of artificial intelligence and personhood, this time from the eyes of Data, who creates a daughter android named Lal. The episode explores themes of parenting, identity, and the nature of family, and features standout performances from Brent Spiner and guest star Hallie Todd as Lal.
“The Offspring” is notable for its emotional impact and its exploration of the human desire for connection and companionship. The episode depicts the realities behind science fiction and universal human experiences.
“The Wounded”
“The Wounded” explores the aftermath of war and the lasting impact of violence on individuals and societies. The episode sees the Enterprise tasked with tracking down a renegade Starfleet captain who has been attacking Cardassian ships, while Captain Picard must navigate a delicate political situation between the Federation and the Cardassians.
This episode features performances from guest stars Bob Gunton and Marc Alaimo, and explores themes of forgiveness, reconciliation, and the difficulties of moving on from past trauma.
“Cause and Effect”
“Cause and Effect” is a mind-bending episode that explores the concept of time loops and the consequences of even small changes in events. The episode tells the story of the Enterprise being caught in a repeating time loop that ends with the destruction of the ship, as the crew must figure out how to break the cycle and prevent disaster.The episode also has amazing performances from the entire cast, as well as a thrilling plot and mind-bending twists that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
“Cause and Effect” is widely regarded as one of the most inventive and entertaining episodes of Star Trek: The Next Generation.
“All Good Things…” – Parts I and II
“All Good Things…” is the series finale of TNG, and it delivers a satisfying conclusion to the show’s seven-season run. The episode sees Captain Picard traveling through time and space to prevent the destruction of humanity, while reflecting on his own life and the relationships he has formed with his crew.
The episode showcases outstanding performances from the entire cast, as well as powerful themes of legacy, friendship, and the importance of living in the moment. “All Good Things…” is widely regarded as one of the best series finales in television history, and is a fitting conclusion to one of the most beloved shows of all time.
There we have it, our list of 10 best Star Wars: The Next Generation episodes. What do you think about our picks? Which episode would you have included? Let us know in the comments below: