idea from a continued audience point of view. It means new viewers aren't going to get hooked for episode two, since the connection to the serialized characters is tangential. You do these types of episodes in the middle of the season... not in the opening. I do like the idea of giving other perspectives on the zombie apocalypse, especially if it ends up tying into the main characters' stories. BUT I'm one of those that's liking season 2 more than season 1. I was frustrated with how we were just thrust into this random group of survivors, expected to care about who lives and dies. I didn't give a shit when Amy died. "Oh, she's someone's sister? Shame." "Wild card" episodes would interrupt character development too much. Unless they actually integrated some substantial background. A few seconds of seeing Dale scooping up Amy and Andrea isn't exciting or insightful. Cameos? I'd prefer a 3-4 minute cold open about them instead. Yeah, hanging out on a farm for 5 episodes wasn't what most people expected. It's underwhelming in terms of action. But I'm glad for getting to know these characters more. I do like the idea of giving other perspectives on the zombie apocalypse, especially if it ends up tying into the main characters' stories. BUT I'm one of those that's liking season 2 more than season 1. I was frustrated with how we were just thrust into this random group of survivors, expected to care about who lives and dies.