Thrond

Season 5 was... uneven. The good episodes were absolutely incredible ('Slice of Life' in particular is one of my favourite episodes of the show and one of the most misunderstood - people criticize it for being random, over-the-top fanservice when that was the episode's satirical point, although it's debatable whether or not it did so 'too well') and hit hard upon appearing, but a good percentage of the season, after re-evaluation during rewatches, feels very bland and awkward ('Tanks for the Memories', 'Appleloosa's Most Wanted', 'Princess Spike', 'Magic Sheep', 'Scare Master' and 'What About Discord?' in particular stand in that that they really don't stand out at all). While I was never a fan of season 6, at least I found its quality more consistent. 

I love "Slice of Life" because it's super unpredictable and actually uses some creativity in its fanservice, but I'm also kind of a contrarian with many of the more popular episodes. Hate "Lost Treasure of Griffonstone" and "Amending Fences," very indifferent to "Canterlot Boutique" and "The Mane Attraction." "Magic Sheep" might just be my least favourite episode of the show ever. Still, "Rarity Investigates" is a serious contender for my favourite episode of the entire show, so yay. 

Agree on 'Rarity Investigates!' I'm surprised I neglected that one as an honourable mention in my reply.

Also, I will admit that, for all its various moments that are kind of cheesy, I also have a soft spot for 'Crusaders of the Lost Mark'. It gives of nearly all of the correct vibes for a character arc conclusion 97 (or 98) episodes in the making and the reprise of 'We'll Make Our Marks' is genuinely fantastic. I wonder how AKR must have felt writing the episode (considering that by this point she and Meghan were the only two writers/story editors left from the bygone age of the CMC's genesis).