Top 10 Original Star Trek Episodes

There is not much I can tell you about Star Trek that legions of fans do not already know. The television show lasted only 3 seasons, yet contributed countless benefits to the science-fiction community (including 4 spin-off shows...5 if you count the excellent cartoon series). If you have not watched the original, you are seriously missing out on some excellent plots, highly developed characters, and moral musings that were ahead of their time. So without further adieu, here are the Top 10 Original Star Trek episodes.

Oh, but first, the Honorable Mentions:
"The Man Trap", "The Enemy Within", "The Corbomite Maneuver", "Arena", "Journey to Babel", and "Bread and Circuses".

10) Errand of Mercy

The Federation vs. The Klingons. A classic scenario, but this time with a twist - the peace-loving Organians, who refuse to defend themselves. They are so incredibly annoying with their pacifism that I found myself rooting for their just comeuppance. But when the twist ending came, I saw myself for what I really was - a militant, lowly, human being.

9) Who Mourns for Adonais?

The Enterprise crew is captured by the Greek god Apollo, raising the questions: What role does God (or gods) play in our modern, complex life? Has mankind surpassed the need for a deity? (my answer: no)

8) The Devil in the Dark

A creature called the Horta is killing miners, and Kirk and Spock are sent to investigate. Yet another episode where we learn that what seems like the enemy is simply a misunderstood creature. That is one reason I love the Star Trek universe - many well-written episodes force you to confront your own natural prejudices and misconceptions.

7) A Taste of Armageddon

Two planets have existed in a constant state of war with each other, only now the battles are fought with computers instead of actual bombs. The death toll, however, remains high. This episode is perfect for anyone pondering the question: Is war better clean and sanitized, or should it remain brutal and bloody?

6) Plato's Stepchildren

A fun episode for many reasons (as you might tell, I enjoy Greek/Roman culture). Often claimed to have the "first interracial kiss on television", this is simply not true. I Love Lucy had already broken that barrier years before. Perhaps the people claiming this mean "the first white/black romantic kiss on television", since Sammy Davis Jr. had kissed Nancy Sinatra a year or so before this episode premiered.

5) The Naked Time

Our Enterprise friends lose their inhibitions, with varying degrees of hilarity. My favorite character in this episode is Kevin Riley (who sadly only appears twice in the series) and his Irish brogue.

4) The Deadly Years

The Enterprise crew begin aging at an accelerated rate. The performances in this episode are quite moving, especially by William Shatner (our beloved captain).

3) The Changeling

I know this doesn't appear on many people's "favorites" list, but I really like this episode. It is fun, exciting, and doesn't drag on the pace. Basically, Kirk faces off against a robot in a battle of logic/wits/whatever. The only annoying part is when Nomad wipes Uhura's memory clean; the episode never answers if she ever gained it back again, or does she have to relearn everything? Does she even remember her parents??? ANSWER THE QUESTIONS, Star Trek!!!

2) The Squire of Gothos

This episode features a sorta of "pre-Q", a being with nearly omnipotent powers (or so it seems at first). Trelane plays with our heroes much like a young child plays with their toys (or pets). This episode has us watch how we treat others, especially non-humans who we think are inherently inferior to us.

1) The Trouble With Tribbles

Ok, no real lessons or philosophical questions in this one - just a lot of fun! Tribbles multiply at alarming rates, and soon the entire ship is filled with the furry things. This should be the first Star Trek episode you ever view, and one every Trekkie should own.

Oh, and did you know you can BUY Tribbles? No, for real!! *cannot guarantee link or products*