I think as already pointed out, if the writers hadn't been horror happy already this arc would have meant more. I did think it was a fun arc idea and liked the Van Helsing look but I don't think it needed 4 episodes, especially with little to spare in the last season.
I liked Star Trek the next Generation coming in, going back to Leo's favourite show in season 1 but I can see the desire to keep going with yet another show.
I'm glad you created this thread btw, I missed most the 2012 discussion as I joined later, course my posts aren't as insightful as others with limited knowledge of all other incarnations
I didn't stop and realise just how much horror infused the show was until others discussed it, I mean, sure I saw it but I didn't stop and realise the extent, still doesn't put me off the show though