A Collider feature argues that The X-Files, which first aired more than 30 years ago, remains essential viewing for fans of modern prestige television, describing it as a blend of the moody, noir-style investigations of True Detective and the paranormal, monster-of-the-week storytelling of Supernatural. The piece contends the series, which helped launch the careers of Gillian Anderson and David Duchovny, was ahead of its time in fusing detective drama with science-fiction and horror elements, and credits it with influencing both shows that came after it.

The article highlights that The X-Files follows FBI agents Mulder and Scully as members of the Bureau's X-Files division, investigating unexplained disappearances, murders and paranormal phenomena that local authorities cannot solve. It notes the show works as much as a detective series as a science-fiction one, exploring larger questions of faith and morality through its two lead characters' contrasting worldviews. The piece also points out that a reboot from director Ryan Coogler is in development, making it a timely moment to revisit the original series.