Eh, the show is what it is. I still watch it every week and plan to keep doing so.
It's managed to keep my interest as well. I love the relationship dynamics and seeing how people are socially adjusting to a world where the only order is that which they make. It's what I love so much about Romero's movies. The zombies could be any threat, even just sick people with no minds, and I'd still probably like it just as much.
I've said the same thing about Mobile Suit Gundam. If everyone was just flying futuristic jets and tanks in it but the characters, story and sociopolitical arena were the same, I would still watch it.
My wife is trying to turn me on to Alcatraz right now and I just can't really get into it. She also wants me to give shows like Supernatural, Being Human and Warehouse 13 a chance, but I think I just need something that is more character driven these days. Also, maturity is a big plus for me. After Spartacus, Game of Thrones and The Borgias (which took a few eps to get going but which I now absolutely love,) and even more mature themed manga like Berserk and Vagabond, I really need to watch uncompromising television to be invested.
I feel that The Walking Dead is at a good 'middle ground' there. It's violent enough and the relationships are gritty enough to keep me interested-it doesn't feel completely watered down, like those other shows. I'm no longer even comparing this to the comic anymore and wondering when plot A or B might happen. If they never find the prison and do something else instead, I'll be okay with that. Same with if they ever find Tyrese and Michonne or not.
But Savini needs to be in this show. And regularly.