Every episode of Star Trek: Discovery season 5 ranked from worst to best

This past week, we watched the grand finale of Star Trek: Discovery, and what a ride it’s been. The series took us on an interstellar journey full of twists, turns, and emotional moments. Now that the final episode has aired, it’s time for the ultimate mission: ranking all of this fifth and final season’s episodes from worst to best.

As we climb the ranks, the episodes just get better and better. From emotional character arcs to epic space battles, each one brought something special to the table. The top episodes had us cheering, crying, and everything in between. They showcased the best of Discovery: strong leadership from Captain Burnham, heartwarming moments, and of course, jaw-dropping sci-fi spectacle.

Let’s celebrate this incredible journey by reliving and ranking this last-ever chunk of episodes, starting, unfortunately, with the big finish:

10) Episode 10, "Life, Itself"

The series finale of Star Trek: Discovery aimed to wrap up the fifth season with a bang but fell short, landing it at the bottom of our rankings. The episode kicks off with Michael Burnham and Moll engaging in a dimension-hopping battle, trying to control the powerful Progenitor tech. Meanwhile, the Discovery crew faces imminent danger from Primarch Tahal's fleet, with Saru volunteering for a near-suicidal mission to save his shipmates. Despite the high stakes, the plot feels rushed and filled with forced twists, like Culber’s sudden spiritual insight and a simplistic puzzle Michael must solve. The climax fizzles out as Michael decides to destroy the tech, deeming it too dangerous, which undoes a season's worth of buildup. Even the final flash forward to Admiral Michael and Book's future with their son fails to deliver the emotional punch it wants to.

"Life, Itself" ranks last due to its convenient plot devices, rushed character arcs, anti-climactic resolution, and lack of emotional depth. While Star Trek: Discovery has delivered many thrilling adventures, this finale felt more like a misstep than a grand farewell.

9) Episode 2, "Under the Twin Moons"

"Under the Twin Moons," the second episode of season 5, takes us on a space adventure that's twistier than a barrel of Tribbles. Captain Burnham’s deep space musing sets the tone, but the episode starts off a bit slow with a hearing about Captain Rayner’s cowboy diplomacy. Not everyone’s impressed, and it drags a bit. The adventure kicks into gear on Lyric, a planet packed with history and Progenitor tech. Burnham and the crew are like space Indiana Jones, decoding riddles and dodging killer drones. This part is exciting and adds some much-needed thrills. Saru gets the nickname “Action Saru,” and it’s perfect. He and Burnham tackle ancient ruins and drone attacks like pros. The crew’s puzzle-solving feels a bit like a book club with higher stakes; it’s interesting but doesn’t quite match the action on Lyric. Book’s surprising (or convenient?) connection to Moll spices things up, but it’s a bit out of the blue. The race against Moll and L’ak is fun, but it feels a bit rushed. The episode’s metaphor about dualities — curiosity vs. preservation, adventure vs. respect — adds depth, reminding us of the complex nature of their mission. Despite the cool action scenes, the balance between excitement and downtime isn’t quite right.

"Under the Twin Moons" has its exciting moments and deep themes, but the slow start and uneven pacing hold it back. It’s a decent episode with some great action, but it could use a bit more zing. As it stands, it's in the second-to-last spot.

8) Episode 4, "Face the Strange"

"Face the Strange" takes us on a character-driven journey through time. The episode kicks off with a sneaky time bug that traps the Discovery in a time loop. This leads to our heroes popping up in iconic moments from the show's past, from battling the sinister AI known as Control and even seeing when the ship was constructed. It’s a nostalgic trip that’s fun but feels a bit like filler.

The episode shines a spotlight on Commander Rayner, who’s adjusting to his new role as first officer. His clashes with Captain Burnham’s emotional leadership style make for an interesting dynamic. By the end, Rayner learns the importance of emotional bonds and trust.

While the time loop and character moments are engaging, the episode’s pacing feels a bit slow. The plot involving villains Moll and L'ak doesn’t quite hit the mark; their motivations feel weak. "Face the Strange" is a filler episode with heart that sets the stage for more exciting adventures to come.

7) Episode 5, "Mirrors"

"Mirrors," the fifth episode of Season 5, has all the right ingredients but ends up being a bit of a middling meal. A mysterious wormhole, ghost ships, and a semi-destroyed USS Enterprise provide a spooky and intriguing setup. Book’s heartfelt reminiscing about his mentor and his attempts to pull Moll back from the dark side are touching if a bit plodding. Michael and Book’s space detective work inside the wormhole adds some excitement, but the episode could use more of it.

Despite the slow pace, we get some great character moments. Rayner stepping up and showing his leadership skills is a highlight. The villains in this episode don’t quite hit the mark. Moll and L'ak's backstory has potential, but the forbidden love story angle feels overused.

Overall, "Mirrors" has its moments but doesn’t quite hit the high notes we’ve come to expect from this show.

6) Episode 3, "Jinaal"

"Jinaal" gives us relationship drama, action, and some lessons on how not to be a jerk. Rayner’s character development is both frustrating and fascinating. He starts off as a bit of a bully, but Michael’s advice and Tilly’s tough love begin to break through his rough exterior. Watching Rayner learn to connect with the crew is both cringe-worthy and heartwarming.

Tilly and Adira’s mission to find Jinaal Bix, an ancient Trill, adds a fun and adventurous element to the episode. Their dynamic is entertaining, and their plan to talk to Jinaal through his newest host is classic Trek ingenuity. Wilson Cruz shines as Culber, especially when Jinaal’s consciousness temporarily takes over his body.

"Jinaal" blends relationship drama, character growth, and classic Star Trek adventure with heartfelt moments, thrilling action, and valuable lessons, keeping fans eagerly watching for what’s next.

5) Episode 1, "Red Directive"

"Red Directive," the season opener, kicks the season off with a bang and a bit of warp wave surfing! Captain Michael Burnham is on a mission to recover stolen goods from a vault, but things quickly go sideways.

The scenes where the cast socializes at Federation Headquarters are fun. It's great to see Burnham mingling with Stamets, Culber, and Tilly, who’s now a Starfleet Academy professor. The "Tonic 2161" cocktails add a nice touch of Trek nostalgia. The episode shifts into high gear with a chase across the desert planet Q’Mau. There’s a marketplace showdown, a sand runner chase, and an avalanche crisis that keeps the tension high. The tractor-beam tug-of-war is a standout moment. The Romulan puzzle box and its connection to the Progenitors is a brilliant nod to "The Chase" from Star Trek: The Next Generation. This season had so much potential.

Overall, "Red Directive" delivers a thrilling start with a perfect mix of action, nostalgia, and character development.

4) Episode 9, "Lagrange Point"

"Lagrange Point" is a thrilling ride that keeps you glued to the screen as Michael Burnham leads her team through high-stakes drama, epic space battles, and emotional moments. The tension is sky-high as the crew faces off against the Breen and tries to avoid getting pulled into merging black holes. Burnham's leadership shines and the action sequences are top-notch. Plus, the discovery of the mysterious Progenitor tech adds a twist that leaves you eagerly anticipating the finale. This episode perfectly blends action, suspense, and emotion, earning the number 4 spot in our rankings. If only the finale had been this good.

3) Episode 7, "Erigah"

"Erigah" is packed with political intrigue and heart-wrenching drama. It skillfully blends the spirit of classic Star Trek with fresh and modern ideas. The episode dives deep into Federation politics and the mysterious Breen. Commander Rayner steps up with a gut-wrenching backstory that makes you root for him. Rayner's dynamic with Burnham is electric. Their contrasting leadership styles create exciting tension. Moll and L'ak, our space Romeo and Juliet, find themselves in a cosmic pickle. L'ak's injury and eventual tragic overdose hit hard, leaving Moll alone and sad but determined to use Progenitor tech to bring him back.

"Erigah" blends heart-pounding drama, emotional depth, and classic Trek elements, making it a top-notch episode from this final season.

2) Episode 6, "Whistlespeak"

"Whistlespeak" is a standout episode of Star Trek: Discovery season 5. This one has everything that makes Star Trek awesome. Captain Michael Burnham and the ever-bubbly Lt. Sylvia Tilly beam down to the primitive planet Halem'no. Visiting Halem'no is like stepping back in time, with log-tossing and no tech in sight.

But things get intense quickly! Burnham and Tilly find themselves wrapped up in the planet’s strange and dangerous rituals, including a life-or-death race and a terrifying sacrificial chamber. The stakes are high, and Burnham has to work her magic to save Tilly and a local girl, Ravah, without breaking the Prime Directive...well, maybe just a little.

What makes "Whistlespeak" shine is how it channels the spirit of classic Star Trek. It's all about exploring strange new worlds, facing ethical dilemmas, and tackling social issues. The dialogue is sharp, the action is fast-paced, and it feels like a break from the usual galaxy-threatening crises. This episode challenges the crew’s morals and mirrors our own societal flaws through the lens of a primitive culture, just like the original series did. The emphasis on character interaction and clever storytelling captures the essence of what makes Star Trek special.

"Whistlespeak" beautifully connects Discovery to the roots of Star Trek, making it a nostalgic treat for fans. It’s an episode that entertains and makes you think, reminding you why you love the series.

1) Episode 8, "Labyrinths"

"Labyrinths" takes the crown as the best episode of season 5, and it's easy to see why. This episode dives deep into Michael Burnham's character, showing her vulnerabilities, fears, and regrets. Her emotional journey is touching and deeply human. The mind-bending plot keeps you on the edge of your seat as Michael faces a life-or-death puzzle in a virtual liminal space. The suspense and twists are pure Star Trek magic. Michael and Book's relationship adds depth to the story, and their scenes together are both tense and tender. While Michael solves puzzles, the rest of the crew kicks butt against the Breen. Lt. Gen Rhys shows his command skills, and Adira and Stamets' scientific genius saves the day. The action is top-notch and keeps the adrenaline pumping.

This episode channels the original spirit of Star Trek with its themes of humanity, diplomacy, and preservation of life. The nods to The Next Generation are a treat for long-time Trekkies, bringing a sense of nostalgia and continuity. Michael's heart-to-heart with the entity is unforgettable. Her fears and anxieties about being a good captain, friend, and partner are laid bare, making her incredibly relatable. This scene alone makes the episode a must-watch.

With stunning visuals, a gripping narrative and emotional depth, "Labyrinths" is a perfect blend of what makes Discovery great. It's an emotional rollercoaster that leaves you eager for the series' conclusion.

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