Star Trek: Best Two-Part Episodes In The Franchise, Ranked - August 2024

Highlights

Two-part episodes in Star Trek add depth and complexity to the lore, making them compelling and memorable chapters.
From shocking accidents to psychological horror, these episodes explore themes of terrorism, betrayal, and intergalactic conflict.
Iconic characters and powerful enemies make these episodes standout in Star Trek history, shaping the future of the series.

As a long-time Trekkie with memories of watching these shows since their initial broadcasts, I must say that each episode holds a special place in my heart. However, if I were to pick two standout episodes from the vast Star Trek universe, it would undoubtedly be “The Menagerie” and “Scorpion” from The Original Series and Voyager respectively.

As a dedicated gamer of the Star Trek universe, I can attest to the fact that many TV shows employ the two-episode arc to weave intricate, captivating narratives. With such an expansive library of lore at their fingertips, the writers of Star Trek have ample material to delve into. In the vast expanse of the Star Trek franchise, there are numerous two-part episodes that stand out as some of the most gripping and enduring tales in the saga.

Two-part episodes are frequently employed at the beginning of a series, the end, or when delving into intricate or puzzling events in the chronicles of Star Trek. These segments serve as valuable resources for viewers eager to understand the characters and storylines that underpin future Star Trek narratives.

6 Star Trek Enterprise: Shockwave

A Devastating Accident And A Tense Investigation

Star Trek: Best Two-Part Episodes In The Franchise, Ranked

Director: Allan Kroeker (Parts 1 and 2)
Starring: Scott Bakula, John Billingsley, Jolene Blalock
Writers: Gene Roddenberry, Rick Berman, Brannon Braga
Release Date: May 22, 2002

Information regarding the Temporal War became known in subsequent ‘Trek’ series, but its earliest depiction occurred in ‘Enterprise’. The inaugural episode began rather ordinarily, as Captain Archer and his team prepared for a trip to a Paraagan mining settlement. However, an unfortunate accident befalls the colony, leaving it devastated, and initially, it appears that the Enterprise team may have been responsible.

In this occurrence, Archer’s mission might seemingly conclude, but as events unfold, it’s uncovered that this was a planned act of terrorism tied to the Temporal War. The episodes are filled with thrilling action and tension as characters scour logs, documents, and forensic data in an attempt to identify the perpetrators and, if feasible, rectify the aftermath.

5 Star Trek The Next Generation: Best of Both Worlds

Picard Meets The Enemy, And It Is Him

Director: Cliff Bole (Parts 1 and 2)
Starring: Patrick Stewart, Jonathan Frakes, LeVar Burton
Writers: Gene Roddenberry, Michael Piller, Ronald D. Moore
Release Date: June 16, 1990

In seasons three and four of “The Next Generation,” two episodes created a linking storyline that introduced the Borg more prominently. Prior to this encounter, Starfleet had only interacted minimally with these enigmatic aliens. However, during this instance, they found themselves face-to-face, offering an unprecedented view of their ruthless behavior.

These Star Trek episodes are particularly renowned in the franchise’s history. They not only provided an opportunity for popular characters to demonstrate their abilities and deepen their roles, but they also expanded on the backstory of the menacing and self-serving Borg, as they made their way into Federation territory for the first time.

4 Star Trek Deep Space 9: The Maquis

An Exciting Setup For A Multi-Show Story

Director: David Livingston (Part 1), Corey Allen (Part 2)
Starring: Avery Brooks, Rene Auberjonois, Alexander Siddig
Writers: Gene Roddenberry, Rick Berman, Michael Piller
Release Date: April 24, 1994

Starfleet considered the struggle between the Cardassians and the Maquis as a series of terrorist actions against an established authority rather than a full-blown war, despite how the Maquis perceived it. The Maquis were initially displaced when the Cardassians struck a peace deal with the Federation. Later, they became significant characters in other Star Trek series, such as Voyager.

The deal that Starfleet made to convince the Cardassians to sign a peace treaty remains a point of contention in every Star Trek show, and these episodes explain the finer details of the controversy. Sisko believes the treaty is reasonable, but his friend Hudson believes otherwise. It takes two episodes for Sisko to figure out how to keep an intergalactic war from breaking out again.

3 Star Trek The Next Generation: Chain of Command

There Are Four Lights

Director: Robert Scheerer (Part 1), Les Landau (Part 2)
Starring: Patrick Stewart, Jonathan Frakes, Ronny Cox
Writers: Gene Roddenberry, Michael Piller, Frank Abatemarco
Release Date: December 12, 1992

As a long-time fan of science fiction, I have to say that psychological horror is my favorite kind. From my personal perspective, this genre has always managed to evoke the most intense emotions and leave a lasting impact on me. This is one of the reasons why these particular episodes are so popular among both critics and fans alike.

These episodes are titled in a way that alludes not only to the pain Picard experiences at his captors’ hands but also to the political implications linked with Starfleet’s hierarchy, as Picard is taken by the Cardassians and subjected to their torment during this period, coinciding with Captain Jellicoe assuming command.

As a long-time Star Trek fan, I must say that the dynamics within the Starship Enterprise are becoming increasingly complex as we delve deeper into this alternate timeline. The contrast between Captain Jellicoe and Captain Picard is stark, and it’s causing quite a stir among the crew. I can’t help but wonder why First Officer Riker didn’t seize command when given the opportunity – perhaps there are reasons beyond what we see on the surface.

2 Star Trek The Original Series: The Menagerie, Parts 1 And 2

The First Two-Part Episode In The Franchise

Director: Marc Daniels (Part 1), Robert Butler (Part 2)
Starring: Leonard Nimoy, William Shatner, Jeffrey Hunter
Writers: Gene Roddenberry
Release Date: November 17, 1966

The first episode of the sci-fi series Star Trek, titled “The Cage“, served as a precursor, explaining why subsequent episodes underwent significant modifications, particularly in terms of cast members. In the very same year, a follow-up to “The Cage” was broadcast, comprising two parts and neatly resolving any lingering plot threads. Known as “The Menagerie“, this sequel incorporated footage from the original pilot, alongside fresh scenes featuring an updated Kirk and his fellow characters.

Captain Pike currently resides at an assisted living center following an incident that left him as a quadriplegic with restricted means of communication. His career in Starfleet, once filled with adventure and exploration, now appears to have culminated in a heartrending and powerless state, which is particularly poignant for contemporary viewers who are familiar with his character from Discovery and Strange New Worlds.

Although it appears that Kirk’s previous role is in jeopardy, there remains a glimmer of hope. His former second-in-command, Spock – one of the few characters who survived beyond the initial episode – has devised an intricate strategy to transport him back to Talos 4 for a tranquil retirement. This peaceful existence will be preserved with all his mental abilities intact.

1 Star Trek Voyager: Scorpion

Exposes The Most Dangerous Beings In The Universe

Director: David Livingston (Part 1), Winrich Kolbe (Part 2)
Starring: Kate Mulgrew, Robert Beltran, Jeri Ryan
Writers: Gene Roddenberry, Jeri Taylor, Brannon Braga
Release Date: May 21, 1997

In this episode, the title draws parallels with the tale of the Frog and the Scorpion, suggesting the Borg as the scorpion. Throughout the episodes, it is assumed that the Borg are indeed the adversary in question. The Borg, faced with formidable foes, find themselves in a precarious situation, leading them to negotiate an alliance with Captain Janeway to overcome these threats together.

Of course, the humans know the Borg plan to betray them. Janeway, however, comes up with a plan to betray them first, which is a twist that only a human with a wild imagination and a hunger for petty revenge would create. The reward for this double-cross is not only some valuable Borg tech to help get them home, but a whole new character, Seven of Nine. Her appearance put the Borg in a new light and, for the first time, restoring a human who had been assimilated by the Borg became a possibility.

2024-08-06 05:04