When I think back on the previous seasons and this one and why this one has such a positive reaction by comparison I think it's due to several factors: Toning down relatively inconsequential episodic narrative in favour of a more prominent serialised narrative, breaking up the episode count into smaller chunks largely alleviating the pacing issues that dogged the initial seasons, placing characters in emotionally complex situations where the stakes aren't simply life threatening, and the overall quality of writing and performance being higher across the board.
So to me any continuation following this season should attempt to reestablish a core status quo, but continue to deliberately explore creative scenarios over the course of the season that allow the characters to convey new emotional nuances and dramatic beats with fresh alacrity.