Star Trek: Lower Decks – Episode Reviews
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Star Trek: Lower Decks
The Funniest Crew in Starfleet
Star Trek: Lower Decks offers a fresh and hilarious perspective on the Star Trek universe by focusing not on captains and admirals, but on the junior officers who keep a starship running behind the scenes. Set aboard the USS Cerritos, a California-class support vessel, the series follows a group of ambitious ensigns as they juggle second-contact missions, bizarre alien encounters, and the everyday challenges of life in Starfleet.
While packed with fast-paced comedy, Lower Decks is also a heartfelt celebration of everything that makes Star Trek special. The series honors decades of franchise history through countless references, returning characters, familiar starships, and classic alien species, while never losing sight of the values of exploration, friendship, optimism, and curiosity.
Over five seasons, the crew of the USS Cerritos grows from inexperienced junior officers into capable Starfleet leaders, proving that heroism isn’t reserved for those in the captain’s chair.
Series Overview
- Original Run: 2020–2024
- Seasons: 5
- Episodes: 50
- Setting: 2380–2382
- Primary Setting: USS Cerritos (California-class starship)
Main Themes
- Friendship and teamwork
- Life aboard a support starship
- Growing into Starfleet officers
- Comedy and adventure
- Exploration and diplomacy
- Respect for Star Trek history
- Optimism and personal growth
Main Characters
- Ensign Beckett Mariner
- Ensign Brad Boimler
- Ensign D’Vana Tendi
- Ensign Samanthan Rutherford
- Captain Carol Freeman
- Commander Jack Ransom
- Commander Shaxs
- Doctor T’Ana
- Lieutenant Billups
- Lieutenant Kayshon
Why We Love It
Star Trek: Lower Decks proves that Star Trek can be both genuinely funny and deeply respectful of its legacy. Beneath the rapid-fire jokes and pop culture references lies a series built on the same optimism and sense of discovery that have defined the franchise for nearly sixty years.
The friendships among Mariner, Boimler, Tendi, and Rutherford form the emotional core of the series, while appearances from legacy characters—including William Riker, Deanna Troi, Tom Paris, Voyager’s crew, Quark, Kira Nerys, and many others—reward longtime fans without overwhelming newcomers.
Each season balances humor with meaningful character development, exciting space battles, and classic Star Trek storytelling. By the series finale, the crew of the Cerritos has earned its place among Starfleet’s most beloved crews.
Highlights
- A comedic yet respectful celebration of Star Trek
- Hundreds of references spanning every Star Trek era
- Strong character growth across all five seasons
- Memorable guest appearances from legacy characters
- Creative science fiction stories and imaginative alien worlds
- Outstanding voice performances from the main cast
- Beautiful animation and cinematic starship action
- A satisfying conclusion that celebrates the future of Starfleet
⭐ Starbase48 Rating
Overall Series Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0/5)
“Star Trek: Lower Decks is far more than a comedy—it is a heartfelt tribute to the entire Star Trek universe. With unforgettable characters, sharp humor, exciting adventures, and an obvious love for the franchise, it has earned its place among Star Trek’s very best series.” — Starbase48 Editorial Team
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Star Trek: Lower Decks – Season 1 Episode Reviews
Starbase48 Episode Ratings
Rating Scale
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ = Masterpiece / Essential Viewing
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ = Excellent
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐ = Very Good
- ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ = Good
- ⭐⭐☆☆☆ = Below Average
- ⭐☆☆☆☆ = Weak Episode
Season 1 (2020)
| # | Episode | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Second Contact | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| 2 | Envoys | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5) |
| 3 | Temporal Edict | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5) |
| 4 | Moist Vessel | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| 5 | Cupid’s Errant Arrow | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5) |
| 6 | Terminal Provocations | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5) |
| 7 | Much Ado About Boimler | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| 8 | Veritas | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| 9 | Crisis Point | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| 10 | No Small Parts | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
⭐ Starbase48 Top 10 Season 1 Episodes
| Rank | Episode | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | No Small Parts | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 2 | Crisis Point | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 3 | Veritas | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 4 | Second Contact | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 5 | Moist Vessel | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 6 | Much Ado About Boimler | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 7 | Envoys | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| 8 | Temporal Edict | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| 9 | Cupid’s Errant Arrow | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| 10 | Terminal Provocations | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
⭐ Starbase48 Editor’s Awards
🏆 Best Episode
No Small Parts ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The season finale proves that Lower Decks is much more than a comedy. As the USS Cerritos battles a ruthless Pakled fleet, every member of the crew rises to the occasion. The arrival of USS Titan under Captain William Riker delivers one of the most exciting and crowd-pleasing finales in modern Star Trek.
🖖 Best Character Episode
Crisis Point ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Mariner creates an elaborate holodeck movie to work through her frustrations with Captain Freeman. The result is an affectionate parody of Star Trek films that also explores Mariner’s emotional struggles and her complicated relationship with her mother.
🚀 Best Science Fiction Story
Veritas ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The four lower deckers find themselves testifying before an alien tribunal with fragmented memories of recent events. The episode cleverly unfolds as a mystery while celebrating Starfleet diplomacy and demonstrating that appearances can be deceiving.
⚔️ Best Action Episode
No Small Parts ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Packed with spectacular animation, thrilling starship combat, and memorable hero moments, the season finale showcases just how cinematic animated Star Trek can be while delivering genuine emotional stakes.
😂 Best Comedy Episode
Much Ado About Boimler ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Boimler is cloned after a transporter accident, leading to hilarious misunderstandings and clever references to Star Trek transporter lore. The episode perfectly balances absurd comedy with heartfelt friendship.
🌌 Best Star Trek Tribute
Second Contact ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The series premiere immediately establishes that Lower Decks lovingly embraces Star Trek history. From second-contact missions to references spanning every previous series, it demonstrates that the show understands—and celebrates—the franchise’s legacy.
🎭 Best Guest Performance
Jonathan Frakes – Captain William T. Riker ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Jonathan Frakes enthusiastically returns as Captain Riker in the finale, bringing his trademark confidence, humor, and adventurous spirit to the USS Titan. His appearance provides an unforgettable conclusion to the season.
⭐ Overall Season Rating
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Storytelling | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Character Development | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Acting (Voice Cast) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Animation | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Music | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Canon Importance | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Rewatch Value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Overall Season Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.9/5)
Season 1 of Star Trek: Lower Decks successfully introduces a completely new style of Star Trek by blending fast-paced comedy with genuine affection for the franchise. What initially appears to be a parody quickly reveals itself as a heartfelt addition to the Star Trek universe, featuring memorable new characters, imaginative science fiction, and countless references that reward longtime fans. Episodes such as “Second Contact,” “Veritas,” “Crisis Point,” and “No Small Parts” demonstrate that humor and classic Star Trek ideals can coexist beautifully. By the end of the season, the crew of the USS Cerritos has firmly earned its place among Starfleet’s most entertaining crews.
These Starbase48 editorial ratings begin the complete Star Trek: Lower Decks Episode Guide for Starbase48.com.
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Star Trek: Lower Decks – Season 2 Episode Reviews
Starbase48 Episode Ratings
Rating Scale
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ = Masterpiece / Essential Viewing
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ = Excellent
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐ = Very Good
- ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ = Good
- ⭐⭐☆☆☆ = Below Average
- ⭐☆☆☆☆ = Weak Episode
Season 2 (2021)
| # | Episode | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Strange Energies | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| 2 | Kayshon, His Eyes Open | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5) |
| 3 | We’ll Always Have Tom Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| 4 | Mugato, Gumato | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5) |
| 5 | An Embarrassment of Dooplers | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| 6 | The Spy Humongous | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5) |
| 7 | Where Pleasant Fountains Lie | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5) |
| 8 | I, Excretus | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| 9 | wej Duj | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| 10 | First First Contact | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
⭐ Starbase48 Top 10 Season 2 Episodes
| Rank | Episode | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | wej Duj | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 2 | First First Contact | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 3 | I, Excretus | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 4 | An Embarrassment of Dooplers | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 5 | We’ll Always Have Tom Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 6 | Strange Energies | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 7 | Kayshon, His Eyes Open | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| 8 | Mugato, Gumato | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| 9 | The Spy Humongous | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| 10 | Where Pleasant Fountains Lie | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
⭐ Starbase48 Editor’s Awards
🏆 Best Episode
wej Duj ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
One of the finest episodes in the series, “wej Duj” explores the lives of lower deck crews aboard Federation, Klingon, and Vulcan starships. By showing that junior officers across the galaxy face similar struggles, the episode expands the Star Trek universe while delivering a powerful and emotional finale.
🖖 Best Character Episode
We’ll Always Have Tom Paris ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Boimler becomes obsessed with collecting commemorative Tom Paris plates, while Mariner unexpectedly reconnects with her Starfleet ideals. The episode brilliantly develops their friendship and features a hilarious guest appearance by Tom Paris himself.
🚀 Best Science Fiction Story
First First Contact ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Cerritos assists a civilization preparing for its first contact with the Federation, only for everything to spiral into chaos. The season finale combines exciting action with classic Star Trek diplomacy and showcases how valuable support ships truly are.
⚔️ Best Action Episode
First First Contact ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
From dangerous orbital rescues to the destruction of the Pakled threat, the finale delivers spectacular animation, tense starship action, and heroic moments for the entire Cerritos crew.
😂 Best Comedy Episode
I, Excretus ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The crew undergoes a bizarre holodeck training program that hilariously reverses Starfleet expectations. Every character gets memorable moments while lovingly poking fun at decades of Star Trek tropes.
🌌 Best Star Trek Tribute
Strange Energies ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Season 2 opens with a perfect blend of humor, action, and continuity, following directly from Season 1 while featuring references to classic Star Trek episodes and showcasing the optimistic spirit of Starfleet.
🎭 Best Guest Performance
Robert Duncan McNeill – Tom Paris ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Robert Duncan McNeill returns to voice Tom Paris, bringing the beloved Voyager pilot back with his trademark charm and humor. His enthusiastic performance makes for one of the season’s most enjoyable guest appearances.
⭐ Overall Season Rating
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Storytelling | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Character Development | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Acting (Voice Cast) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Animation | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Music | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Canon Importance | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Rewatch Value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Overall Season Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0/5)
Season 2 builds upon an already successful first season by delivering stronger character development, more ambitious storytelling, and even deeper connections to Star Trek lore. The friendships among Mariner, Boimler, Rutherford, and Tendi continue to evolve, while episodes such as “I, Excretus,” “wej Duj,” and “First First Contact” demonstrate that Lower Decks is capable of balancing hilarious comedy with heartfelt emotion and classic Star Trek optimism. The season’s finale cements the USS Cerritos as one of Starfleet’s most beloved crews and proves that support ships can be every bit as heroic as the Federation’s flagship.
These Starbase48 editorial ratings continue the complete Star Trek: Lower Decks Episode Guide for Starbase48.com.
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Star Trek: Lower Decks – Season 3 Episode Reviews
Starbase48 Episode Ratings
Rating Scale
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ = Masterpiece / Essential Viewing
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ = Excellent
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐ = Very Good
- ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ = Good
- ⭐⭐☆☆☆ = Below Average
- ⭐☆☆☆☆ = Weak Episode
Season 3 (2022)
| # | Episode | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Grounded | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| 2 | The Least Dangerous Game | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5) |
| 3 | Mining the Mind’s Mines | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| 4 | Room for Growth | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5) |
| 5 | Reflections | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| 6 | Hear All, Trust Nothing | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| 7 | A Mathematically Perfect Redemption | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| 8 | Crisis Point 2: Paradoxus | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| 9 | Trusted Sources | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| 10 | The Stars at Night | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
⭐ Starbase48 Top 10 Season 3 Episodes
| Rank | Episode | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Stars at Night | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 2 | Hear All, Trust Nothing | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 3 | Crisis Point 2: Paradoxus | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 4 | Trusted Sources | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 5 | Reflections | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 6 | A Mathematically Perfect Redemption | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 7 | Grounded | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 8 | Mining the Mind’s Mines | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 9 | Room for Growth | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| 10 | The Least Dangerous Game | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
⭐ Starbase48 Editor’s Awards
🏆 Best Episode
Hear All, Trust Nothing ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Cerritos visits Deep Space Nine, reuniting fans with Kira Nerys, Quark, and the iconic station itself. Packed with references to Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, clever humor, and an entertaining conspiracy involving the station’s computer systems, this episode is a love letter to one of Star Trek’s greatest series.
🖖 Best Character Episode
Reflections ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rutherford uncovers shocking truths about his cybernetic implant and confronts a hidden version of himself. The episode adds emotional depth to one of the series’ most lovable characters while raising fascinating questions about identity and memory.
🚀 Best Science Fiction Story
Crisis Point 2: Paradoxus ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Boimler’s latest holodeck adventure evolves into a surprisingly thoughtful examination of alternate timelines, destiny, and personal growth. While hilariously parodying Star Trek films, it also delivers one of the franchise’s smartest time-travel stories.
⚔️ Best Action Episode
The Stars at Night ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The season finale delivers an epic battle against the Texas-class automated starships as the Cerritos crew fights to prove that Starfleet officers can never be replaced by artificial intelligence. The stunning animation and emotional character moments make for an unforgettable finale.
😂 Best Comedy Episode
Mining the Mind’s Mines ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Cerritos crew attempts negotiations with an alien race while Mariner and Commander Ransom repeatedly lose their memories. The episode combines slapstick comedy, witty dialogue, and classic Star Trek diplomacy into one of the funniest installments of the series.
🌌 Best Legacy Episode
Hear All, Trust Nothing ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Returning to Deep Space Nine is a dream come true for longtime fans. Seeing familiar locations and beloved characters decades later feels authentic and respectful, making this one of the finest legacy episodes in modern Star Trek.
🎭 Best Guest Performances
Nana Visitor (Kira Nerys) & Armin Shimerman (Quark) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Both actors seamlessly return to their iconic roles, bringing warmth, humor, and authenticity back to Deep Space Nine. Their performances make the reunion feel like a natural continuation of the classic series.
⭐ Overall Season Rating
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Storytelling | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Character Development | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Acting (Voice Cast) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Animation | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Music | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Canon Importance | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Rewatch Value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Overall Season Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0/5)
Season 3 represents another major step forward for Star Trek: Lower Decks, balancing its trademark comedy with increasingly mature storytelling and meaningful character growth. Rutherford’s search for his past, Mariner’s evolving relationship with Starfleet, and Boimler’s growing confidence all receive significant development, while the series continues to celebrate Star Trek’s rich history. Episodes like “Hear All, Trust Nothing,” “Reflections,” “Crisis Point 2: Paradoxus,” and “The Stars at Night” showcase the show’s ability to blend humor, action, and heartfelt storytelling. With memorable guest appearances, exciting adventures, and an emotional finale, Season 3 further establishes Lower Decks as one of the franchise’s strongest modern series.
These Starbase48 editorial ratings continue the complete Star Trek: Lower Decks Episode Guide for Starbase48.com.
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Contact Starbase48 with any questions you might have regarding any aspects of our club. Contact Starbase48
Star Trek: Lower Decks – Season 4 Episode Reviews
Starbase48 Episode Ratings
Rating Scale
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ = Masterpiece / Essential Viewing
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ = Excellent
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐ = Very Good
- ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ = Good
- ⭐⭐☆☆☆ = Below Average
- ⭐☆☆☆☆ = Weak Episode
Season 4 (2023)
| # | Episode | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Twovix | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| 2 | I Have No Bones Yet I Must Flee | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5) |
| 3 | In the Cradle of Vexilon | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5) |
| 4 | Something Borrowed, Something Green | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| 5 | Empathological Fallacies | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5) |
| 6 | Parth Ferengi’s Heart Place | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| 7 | A Few Badgeys More | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| 8 | Caves | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| 9 | The Inner Fight | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| 10 | Old Friends, New Planets | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
⭐ Starbase48 Top 10 Season 4 Episodes
| Rank | Episode | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Old Friends, New Planets | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 2 | A Few Badgeys More | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 3 | The Inner Fight | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 4 | Caves | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 5 | Parth Ferengi’s Heart Place | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 6 | Twovix | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 7 | Something Borrowed, Something Green | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 8 | I Have No Bones Yet I Must Flee | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| 9 | Empathological Fallacies | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| 10 | In the Cradle of Vexilon | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
⭐ Starbase48 Editor’s Awards
🏆 Best Episode
Old Friends, New Planets ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Season 4 finale delivers everything fans could want: thrilling starship action, emotional reunions, and the triumphant return of Nick Locarno as the season’s primary antagonist. Every member of the Cerritos crew gets a chance to shine in a satisfying conclusion that celebrates teamwork and Starfleet ideals.
🖖 Best Character Episode
The Inner Fight ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rutherford finally uncovers the complete truth behind his cybernetic implant and confronts the memories that have haunted him for years. His emotional journey of self-discovery provides one of the series’ strongest character moments.
🚀 Best Science Fiction Story
A Few Badgeys More ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Three rogue artificial intelligences—Badgey, Agimus, and Peanut Hamper—collide in one of the most imaginative episodes of the series. Blending humor with surprisingly thoughtful questions about artificial life, redemption, and evolution, the episode is classic Star Trek wrapped in comedy.
⚔️ Best Action Episode
Old Friends, New Planets ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Cerritos and its allies battle Nova Fleet in a visually spectacular finale featuring fast-paced space combat, daring rescues, and heroic sacrifices. The animation reaches cinematic quality throughout the episode.
😂 Best Comedy Episode
Twovix ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A transporter malfunction creates “Twovix,” hilariously parodying one of Star Trek: Voyager‘s most debated episodes. Filled with clever callbacks and laugh-out-loud moments, it’s a perfect example of Lower Decks honoring Trek history while creating something entirely new.
🌌 Best Legacy Episode
Parth Ferengi’s Heart Place ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The return of Grand Nagus Rom, Leeta, and Ferenginar showcases how much the Ferengi Alliance has evolved since Deep Space Nine. The episode celebrates DS9’s lasting legacy while giving fans a welcome update on beloved characters.
🎭 Best Guest Performance
Robert Duncan McNeill – Nick Locarno ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Robert Duncan McNeill returns to Star Trek in a completely different role from Tom Paris, voicing the ambitious and charismatic Nick Locarno. His performance transforms a once-forgotten The Next Generation character into one of Lower Decks’ most compelling villains.
⭐ Overall Season Rating
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Storytelling | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Character Development | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Acting (Voice Cast) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Animation | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Music | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Canon Importance | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Rewatch Value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Overall Season Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0/5)
Season 4 continues Star Trek: Lower Decks‘ remarkable evolution, combining hilarious comedy with increasingly ambitious storytelling and emotional character arcs. Rutherford’s journey toward understanding his past, Tendi’s return to Orion, and Mariner’s continued growth as a Starfleet officer provide meaningful development, while the season also rewards longtime fans with memorable callbacks to The Next Generation, Deep Space Nine, and Voyager. Outstanding episodes such as “Twovix,” “A Few Badgeys More,” “The Inner Fight,” and “Old Friends, New Planets” showcase the series at its creative best. With exceptional writing, beautiful animation, and heartfelt performances, Season 4 stands among the strongest seasons of modern Star Trek.
These Starbase48 editorial ratings continue the complete Star Trek: Lower Decks Episode Guide for Starbase48.com.
Contact Us
Contact Starbase48 with any questions you might have regarding any aspects of our club. Contact Starbase48
Star Trek: Lower Decks – Season 5 Episode Reviews
Starbase48 Episode Ratings
Rating Scale
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ = Masterpiece / Essential Viewing
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ = Excellent
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐ = Very Good
- ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ = Good
- ⭐⭐☆☆☆ = Below Average
- ⭐☆☆☆☆ = Weak Episode
Season 5 (2024)
| # | Episode | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dos Cerritos | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| 2 | Shades of Green | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5) |
| 3 | The Best Exotic Nanite Hotel | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5) |
| 4 | A Farewell to Farms | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| 5 | Starbase 80?! | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| 6 | Of Gods and Angles | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5) |
| 7 | Fully Dilated | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| 8 | Upper Decks | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| 9 | Fissure Quest | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| 10 | The New Next Generation | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
⭐ Starbase48 Top 10 Season 5 Episodes
| Rank | Episode | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | The New Next Generation | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 2 | Fissure Quest | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 3 | Upper Decks | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 4 | Starbase 80?! | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 5 | Fully Dilated | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 6 | Dos Cerritos | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 7 | A Farewell to Farms | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 8 | Shades of Green | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| 9 | Of Gods and Angles | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| 10 | The Best Exotic Nanite Hotel | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
⭐ Starbase48 Editor’s Awards
🏆 Best Episode
The New Next Generation ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The series finale is a heartfelt celebration of everything that made Star Trek: Lower Decks special. As the Cerritos crew confronts a multiversal crisis, each character completes their personal journey while embracing new leadership roles. The episode perfectly balances humor, action, emotion, and optimism, serving as a fitting farewell to one of Star Trek’s most beloved modern series.
🖖 Best Character Episode
Upper Decks ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
For the first time, the spotlight shifts from the ensigns to the senior officers of the USS Cerritos. Captain Freeman, Commander Ransom, Shaxs, Dr. T’Ana, and Billups receive meaningful character development while demonstrating why they are among Starfleet’s finest leaders.
🚀 Best Science Fiction Story
Fissure Quest ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Boimler and an unlikely team of heroes venture through unstable dimensional fissures, encountering alternate realities and familiar faces from across the Star Trek multiverse. Packed with imaginative concepts, fan service, and thrilling adventure, it stands as one of the franchise’s most creative multiverse stories.
⚔️ Best Action Episode
The New Next Generation ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The final battle features spectacular starship combat, daring rescues, and heroic teamwork as the Cerritos crew works alongside Starfleet to prevent catastrophic dimensional collapse. The animation reaches cinematic quality, delivering one of the most visually impressive finales in Star Trek history.
😂 Best Comedy Episode
Starbase 80?! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Mariner and Boimler discover that Starbase 80’s terrible reputation may be exaggerated. Filled with eccentric characters, hilarious misunderstandings, and classic Lower Decks humor, the episode transforms one of Star Trek’s longest-running jokes into a surprisingly heartfelt adventure.
🌌 Best Legacy Episode
Fissure Quest ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Featuring alternate-universe Starfleet officers and references spanning nearly every era of Star Trek, Fissure Quest celebrates the franchise’s expansive history while remaining accessible to new viewers. Its respectful use of legacy characters makes it one of the standout episodes of the season.
🎭 Best Guest Performance
Kira Nerys (Nana Visitor) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Nana Visitor once again brings strength, wisdom, and warmth to Colonel Kira Nerys, reminding fans why she remains one of Star Trek’s most enduring and respected characters. Her appearance is a welcome connection to the legacy of Deep Space Nine.
⭐ Overall Season Rating
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Storytelling | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Character Development | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Acting (Voice Cast) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Animation | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Music | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Canon Importance | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Rewatch Value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Overall Season Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0/5)
Season 5 concludes Star Trek: Lower Decks with confidence, heart, and a deep appreciation for Star Trek’s enduring legacy. The season continues to deliver the sharp humor and clever references fans have come to expect while giving each member of the Cerritos crew a satisfying conclusion to their personal journey. Episodes such as “Starbase 80?!,” “Upper Decks,” “Fissure Quest,” and “The New Next Generation” highlight the show’s ability to blend comedy with genuine emotional storytelling and imaginative science fiction.
The finale celebrates friendship, optimism, exploration, and the belief that every Starfleet officer—whether on the bridge or in the lower decks—can make a difference. By its conclusion, Lower Decks has firmly established itself as one of the finest animated series in the Star Trek franchise and a worthy companion to every live-action era.
These Starbase48 editorial ratings complete the Star Trek: Lower Decks Episode Guide, covering all 50 episodes of the series and providing a complete review library for Starbase48.com.
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