Bet you didn't expect this.

So, what exactly is this all about?

I'm glad you asked! It's really quite simple. I'm going to go through each season of Friendship is Magic and rank my favourite episodes. I originally planned for this to be just one blog, where I'd pick my definite favourite from each season. Upon review, there are a lot of episodes that I really like and I feel that I wouldn't be content with picking one to represent an entire season. So, this format will have to suffice. For the sake of not making these overly long, I'm going to limit these to my top 5 per season.

Naturally, we shall be starting at the very beginning - Season 1. This is where a lot of us began our journey, myself included. So, this will certainly be quite the nostalgic trip. I will note that I have re-watched all of these episodes within the last two weeks, so they are still very fresh in my head.

Now that's out of the way, let's begin. Be sure to get comfy as we dive back into where it all started.

5. Sonic Rainboom

I'll make a confession. I wasn't really much of a Rainbow Dash fan until this episode.

I think RD's characterisation is handled perfectly here. You still have her cockiness and coolness at the start, but exploring her insecurity adds a lot more depth to her character and makes the climax all the more satisfying. RD finally pulling off the sonic rainboom is honestly one of my favourite moments in the entire season. Even the less focused parts like the tour of Cloudsdale and the weather factory is enjoyable and always something that I look forward to seeing upon re-watch.

Not much else to say here. Just a great episode overall.

4. Look Before You Sleep

I like watching this on rainy days. :3

I felt that the characterisation for AJ and Rarity was handled very well here. While their conflict was simple as a narrative, I felt that it offered a great perspective to their characters. I think they have the most interesting dynamic in the entire show, so I'm glad this episode did it justice.

I also loved the whole idea of them being trapped in a slumber party together. It was really cute and I felt that it was a neat way of blending humour with a more serious issue. Also, Twilight's eagerness for the slumber party was plain adorable.

Not much else to say here. Just a great episode overall.

3. Winter Wrap Up

Yeah, not really a shocking pick.

I think the progression of Twilight's journey is pretty good. Stripping her of magic added a more human element to the episode and made it more relatable. There are tons of subtle details and I find myself loving this episode more every time I re-watch it.

I always found the premise itself quite interesting and it always seemed cool that wrapping up winter was a collective effort. Once again, it makes it feel like a larger world and that's always awesome. Of course, I have to mention Winter Wrap Up (the song). Really catchy and like the episode, is a classic.

This is one of my comfort episodes. Very cozy and always wonderful to sit down and watch. 

2. Party of One

So, I really like that this episodes taps more into Pinkie Pie's emotions. In other episodes, we generally see her bounce back quite quickly, but not so much here. Like RD, this episode has boosted my appreciation for Pinkie as a character. I think it delivers a great message that anyone can have really negative moments, including those who seem the most positive or energetic.

My favourite scene has to be when the ponies are trying to keep Pinkie out of the barn. You know, complete with the totally accurate construction noises. Always manages to get a laugh out of me.

Speaking of which, I think this episode excels at quieter aspects like humour and pacing. All the jokes were pretty on point and I never feel the run time. Makes it an absolute joy to re-watch. Super engaging as a whole and possibly my favourite Pinkie episode from the entire show.

1. The Best Night Ever

This is the only season that ends with a slice of life episode and I love it for that reason.

This episode is still satisfying to watch, even without a direct threat or any stakes. The gala itself has been built up to for the entire season, so having it as the final focus is a really strong payoff. I think trying to tie into Ticket Master by giving each of the Mane 6 their own little plot line is quite cute.

While not talked about as much, the first third of the episode leading up to the gala is also great. "At the Gala" has really grown on me over the years and I think it's one of the more underrated songs. This episode is a funny perspective on the fact that things don't always turn out the way you think. Definitely one of my favourites of all time.

That's it for Season 1! I'll catch you next time!