Huge fan here, and pretty much agree with your assessment. Think I have all of the previously televised eps, including the KTMA versions. Went to both ConventioCon Expo-Fest-a-Ramas. Even ran a very early website that won a (minor) early web award.
Watched the first new program last night and was generally impressed and amused. I won't address specifics about the cast or sets, just comment on the content. I have thoughts on these issues, but don't want to get into long discussions or arguments here...
The movie - Reptilicus - was very enjoyably bad! I think the riffing was quite well-done. Surprised that they seem to keep in mind that a lot of their fans are OLDER folks like me. There was one line -- can't remember it, BECAUSE I'm old -- that nobody under 55 could possibly get! Glad they're not dumbing it down to cater to younger viewers. Keep the humor broad!
I won't be binge-watching. I'll be doling these out, maybe on/week, like a fine wine...
I never had a doubt that it would be terrific, since Joel was so heavily involved in getting it done right.