The Best Episodes of Doctor Who's First 12 Seasons

Doctor Who has had 12 seasons so far, each bringing its own unique adventures and iconic moments. From the classic Dalek fleet to the intricate Zygon plot, these episodes stand out as some of the most memorable in the series. Let's explore the episodes that have captured the hearts of fans across the globe.

Season 1-4: The Return of Epic Fantasies

The first few seasons of Doctor Who are filled with grand adventures and iconic moments. Here are some of the best episodes that continue to resonate with both new and old viewers alike.

Season 1

"Bad Wolf" / "The Parting of the Ways" - This two-part season finale is hailed as one of the best episodes of the first years of the series. It finally allows the show to embrace its ambitious storytelling, featuring a Dalek fleet attack. The climax features a classic Doctor speech: “It means ‘No.’” "The Eleventh Hour" - The first episode of the 11th season introduces a fully realized personality for the new Doctor, making it a standout opening among its predecessors. "The Doctor's Wife" - When the TARDIS takes on a female form, this episode is a true classic, evoking a tangible sense of wonder and power. Simply saying “It’s the one where the TARDIS becomes a woman” evokes the memories of this episode.

Season 2

"The Long Game" - A suspenseful and intriguing episode that paves the way for the dramatic tension to follow. "The Girl in the Fireplace" - A tender and nostalgic episode that is a standout in its complex character development.

Season 3

"Human Nature/The Family of Blood" - Two interweaving stories that offer a rich exploration of the human condition, combining historical drama with sci-fi elements. "Midnight" - An episode that explores themes of obsession, paranoia, and the supernatural, leading to a gripping finale.

Season 4

"The Lodger" - A prequel episode that delves into the origin of the Master, providing insight into the Doctor's eternal adversary. "The God Complex" - A philosophical and introspective episode that questions the nature of God and free will.

Seasons 5-12: The Evolution and Master Plots

As the series progressed, the narrative and storytelling grew more complex, with some standout episodes that have remained beloved by fans.

Season 5

"The Power of Three" - An episode that showcases a team effort, making the adventure feel collaboratively driven. "The Day of the Doctor" - A two-part special episode that reimagines the 50th anniversary of the show, with a high emotional impact and a twist ending.

Season 6

Season 6, while still interesting, did not particularly resonate with me during my initial watch, and I found it lacking in standout episodes compared to seasons 3 and 4. However, some notable episodes include:

"Listen" - A suspenseful episode, with a clever use of sound and silence. "Rosa" - An episode that explores the social and political issues of prejudice and representation.

Season 7-12

"Blink" - Featuring a standout performance by Eve Myles, this episode is a must-watch for any Doctor Who fan. "The Zygon Invasion" / "The Zygon Inversion" - This series-long plot is innovative, with a memorable speech: “Sit down and talk!” "Silence in the Library" / "Forest of the Dead" - A unique episode that makes full use of the TARDIS as a library. "The Doctor's Daughter" - A heartfelt episode that skips ahead to the 9th Doctor. "The God Complex" and its sequel, "The Satan Pit" - Both episodes explore deep philosophical questions with captivating storytelling. "Miracle Day" - A social commentary episode that features a unique time loop that changes daily. "The Day of the Doctor" - A masterful two-part special that reimagines the 50th anniversary of the show with a satisfying twist.

While season 12 was solid and even had better episodes than the previous season, it lacked the stunning standout episodes of seasons 3 and 4. Season 6, while by no means a disappointment, was the least engaging for me in multiple rewatchings.

Conclusion

The episodes mentioned here are a testament to the enduring appeal of Doctor Who, showcasing its ability to blend heartwarming narratives, dramatic conflicts, and imaginative science fiction. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer, these episodes are a great place to start or revisit for a thrilling journey through time and space.