The episode received mostly positive reviews from television critics, with Rudd's performance and the various subplots being generally well-received, although some disliked the main mystery. Eric Goldman of IGN graded the episode a 7.8 out of 10, indicating that it was "good". He generally praised Rudd's performance and the case-of-the week, but he was critical of its ending, stating that "after last week, it was a bit too much of another 'and that's one to grow on' conclusion." He was also mixed towards the episode's subplots, enjoying Mac's romantic storyline but disliking Logan's continued interest in Veronica. He also referred to Vinnie running for Sheriff as "a bit ridiculous". Reviewer Alan Sepinwall, on his blog What's Alan Watching?, lauded the episode, particularly Rudd's performance. He stated that Rudd, despite playing a stock character, "made me feel like I hadn't seen it a thousand times before." He also enjoyed the pairing of Mac and Max, while he believed that the impact of Vinnie and Leo's reappearances was blunted by the knowledge that the show would likely not return for a fourth season. "Television Without Pity" graded the episode a "B".