The series revolves around a computer program for the federal government known as "The Machine" that is capable of collating all sources of information to predict terrorist acts and to identify people planning them.
A team, consisting of John Reese, Harold Finch and Sameen Shaw follow "irrelevant" crimes: lesser level of priority for the government.
According to Nielsen Media Research, the episode was seen by an estimated 10.58 million household viewers and gained a 1.7/5 ratings share among adults aged 18–49.
The episode received positive reviews, although some noted the pace and tone in comparison to the previous season, others welcomed the new angle on the characters and storylines.
After a talk with Root (Amy Acker), Shaw goes to a self-esteem seminar where she runs into Reese, who was given the same address at the exact time.
Finch refuses to cooperate with the Machine after its order to kill McCourt and tells Reese to avoid the numbers as Samaritan will find them.
The codes lead him to a library for a specific book and finally arriving at an underground hideout, using a forgotten Interborough Rapid Transit Company station.
In its original American broadcast, "Panopticon" was seen by an estimated 10.58 million household viewers and gained a 1.7/5 ratings share among adults aged 18–49, according to Nielsen Media Research.
Matt Fowler of IGN gave the episode a "great" 8.3 out of 10 rating and wrote in his verdict, "'Panopticon' lifted our heroes up out of their 'secret identity' ashes in order to get them to a place where they could secretly save lives again.
With odes to both Batman and Lost, the premiere provided plenty of action, humor, and intrigue while turning Reese into the mission's default cheerleader.
Club gave the episode a "B+" grade and wrote, "An ambitious season finale is a tough act to follow, and 'Panopticon' seems safer and more tepid in comparison.
While Person of Interest should never try to be something it isn't, it could use a little of the audacity demonstrated by the season premiere of Sleepy Hollow, a young and hungry show at this stage in the game.