That’s exactly how I view it as well, dumb escapism.  I’m thoroughly enjoying it all, especially Negan and Daryl.  Heck, anything with Negan is grade A.

I think the best thing that TWD has done is to turn Negan from an asshole into a genuinely loveable asshole.  I’d much prefer Negan and Daryl’s adventures in New Mexico.  Carol has just become a drag, though Carol and Daryl hugging would have been a perfect way to end the series.  Who cares about the adventures of…

I’m about to watch episode 16 of season 10.  Yes, pretty much what everyone has already said is true.  I take it all with a pinch of salt.  I still enjoy it, even with how subjectively bad it is now.  It’s a guilty pleasure of mine.  I stay for Negan, and for Daryl.