A major cognitive function is often overlooked in artificial intelligence research: episodic memory. In this paper, we relate episodic memory to the more general need for explicit memory in intelligent processing. We describe its main mechanisms and its involvement in a variety of functions, ranging from concept learning to planning. We set the basis for a computational cognitive neuroscience approach that could result in improved machine learning models. More precisely, we argue that episodic memory mechanisms are crucial for contextual decision making, generalization through consolidation and prospective memory.