I think Seasons 2-3 have been pretty much as enjoyable as Season 1, so I really don’t get people that love 1 but dislike 2 or 3.
I don’t think it has to do with Seasons 2/3 jumping the shark. The entire premise is insane when you consider the logistics that would have to be involved to conduct those games involving hundreds of people in total secrecy for 10+ years or however long it was.