While the first season was generally well-received for its mystery, the second season was heavily criticized for becoming "farcical" and losing the "grounding in reality" that made the characters relatable.
Reviewers frequently highlighted the "hook" of the first episode, noting the fast-paced action and the claustrophobic, "mind-twisting" mystery. HelixTV Show | 2014
“I find it hard to believe that a mystery can be sustained throughout a show... yet in Helix the mystery just keeps getting better! It is a fun mind-twister.” chickflickingreviews.com · 11 years ago Why Syfy's Helix Deserved the Axe - Sci-Fi Bloggers While the first season was generally well-received for
Overall, the series is praised for its high-stakes tension and unique setting but criticized for a significant decline in quality between its two seasons. Critical Consensus HelixTV Show | 2014