The Dimension C-137
The chaotic suburban home of the universe's most brilliant and broken scientist.
Dimension C-137 is the primary setting and home reality for the series' protagonist, Rick Sanchez, along with his grandson Morty Smith. While the multiverse contains infinite variations of Earth, this specific coordinate serves as the narrative anchor where the central family drama unfolds within a typical suburban environment. This dimension holds unique significance in the broader cosmology because it is the origin point for the most prominent version of Rick Sanchez. It distinguishes itself from other realities that are often consumed by interdimensional bureaucracy or war, remaining instead a zone of chaotic isolationism where science and family life collide.
Quick Facts
- Primary resident
- Rick Sanchez (C-137)
- Key family members
- Morty Smith
- Beth Smith
- Jerry Smith
- Reality type
- Earth-like Suburban Dimension
- Multiverse status
- Fugitive from the Council of Ricks
- Notable structure
- The Garage Laboratory
- Affiliation
- Independent (Post-Citadel)
Lore & Background
Dimension C-137 is defined by its proximity to the multiverse's central power struggles. For years, this reality was targeted by a coalition known as the Council of Ricks, which sought to capture Rick C-137 as a fugitive. The Citadel was destroyed by Evil Morty in the Season 5 episode 'Rickmurai Jack', and as of the end of Season 7, it has not been shown as rebuilt. Rick C-137, who never served as a Council member, survived the collapse and subsequently retreated into isolation.
The history of this specific Earth is marked by profound tragedy for its main inhabitant. Long-standing lore suggested that Rick lost his original family due to an accident involving his portal technology, driving him into self-imposed exile across the cosmos. Later revelations corrected this: Rick C-137's original family was killed by a portal bomb sent by Rick Prime, not by an accident involving his own portal technology. This external interference from a rival dimension variant deepened the psychological scars carried by the resident scientist.
Despite the constant threat of interdimensional invaders and alien threats, C-137 remains a relatively stable environment for the Smith family. The garage laboratory serves as the nexus of activity, bridging the gap between mundane suburban life and high-stakes cosmic adventure.
Reader's Guide
Dimension C-137 serves as the narrative anchor for the entire series, distinguishing itself among infinite realities by housing the protagonist Rick Sanchez and his grandson Morty. While countless variations of Earth exist across the multiverse, this specific coordinate is where the central family drama unfolds within a typical suburban setting. The dimension gained notoriety after its inhabitant dismantled the Citadel of Ricks, effectively ending the bureaucratic tyranny that governed most timelines.
Unlike other realities consumed by interdimensional conflict or corporate rule, C-137 remains a zone of relative isolationism. Rick operates from his garage laboratory here, using it as a base for adventures while maintaining a fragile domestic life with Beth and Jerry. The dimension is also historically significant due to the tragic events surrounding Rick’s original family, which drove him into self-imposed exile across the cosmos before he returned home.
Fans recognize this location not just by its coordinates, but by its emotional weight. It represents the only place where Rick consistently attempts, albeit poorly, to maintain human connections despite his nihilistic worldview. The stability of C-137 is constantly threatened by external forces seeking to exploit its resources or capture its genius scientist.
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