Ep 15. Rabbit or Duck

Ted, Barney, Marshall, Lily, and Robin are back again in the How I Met Your Mother season 5 episode 15 'Rabbit or Duck.' In this episode, the group takes part in a debate over a classic philosophical conundrum; "Is something a rabbit or a duck?"

The debate is inspired by Lily and Marshall's pregnancy announcement, and the group decides to visit a doctor to determine the sex of the baby. However, the doctor informs them that it is too early to tell and that the gender of the baby might just surprise them. This leads to Barney suggesting that they should place bets on whether they will have a boy or a girl. The group soon finds themselves divided by their opinions and begin the debate over whether the baby will be a rabbit or a duck.

As the debate ensues, it becomes clear that everyone has their own reason for their choice, and the arguments become humorous and entertaining. Ted argues for a girl, stating that girls are more fun and will lead to Lily and Marshall having an easier life. Barney believes that a boy would be better as they are easier to raise and will grow up to be rich and successful. Robin argues that Lily's pregnancy hormones would be more forgiving for a girl. Marshall, on the other hand, supports a boy, citing that he wants someone to play catch with.

The argument escalates until they all agree to settle it through a game of laser tag, in which the team with the highest score gets to determine the baby's gender. The laser tag scene turns out to be one of the funniest and memorable scenes in How I Met Your Mother, with each member of the group showing their unique strategy and tactics. The game is exciting and close until an unexpected twist results in a winner.

The episode doesn't just revolve around the baby's gender debate; it also focuses on the theme of change. Barney is struggling to cope with the fact that Robin has decided to become roommates with Don, her new boyfriend. Barney tries to convince her that she is making a terrible mistake, but Robin is firm in her decision. Barney realizes that he has to accept the changes and move forward, but it is not easy for him.

Meanwhile, Ted is dealing with his own set of changes as he realizes that he has to start letting go of his past. In the previous episodes, Ted has been shown to be on a quest to find "the one." But as he reminisces about his past relationships, he realizes that he has to accept the fact that those relationships were also a part of his journey. He tries to let go of his past by giving away his "ex-box" to his friends, which contains all his mementos from past relationships.

The episode ends with a surprising twist, as the group discovers that Lily and Marshall didn't find out the gender of the baby. Instead, they found out that they are having a baby boy and a baby girl, surprising everyone and ending the debate. The episode wraps up with the group gathered around, celebrating the arrival of two new lives, and the realization that change can be a beautiful thing.

In conclusion, the How I Met Your Mother season 5 episode 15 'Rabbit or Duck' is a hilarious and heartwarming episode that tackles the theme of change while also providing entertainment and laughter through the witty and humorous arguments. The laser tag scene is one of the highlights of the show, and the episode ends with a surprise that leaves the audience eager for more.