No doubt some of you will disown me, but I'm generally satisfied and would have been happy with it as the series finale (with some adjustments obviously). It was... pretty much what I expected. With a couple of surprises good and bad, along the way. It would have been more satisfying if the season as a whole had been stronger, but yeah.
No happy ending for Dean. NOTHING like a happy ending for Sam. But honestly? It was a good ending. Sam and Dean went out like heroes, fighting to the end. They went out fighting for each other. This was such a Sam&Dean ending, you guys. All about the love between them, everything they've shared. The journey they've taken, and the strength of character that saw them through it all. ♥
If they had to hit the reset button to bring us back to a S1 vibe, this was the way to do it. They've effectively eliminated demon and angel armies as threats, which brings down the MoTW power levels by a factor of a gajillion. Michael and Lucifer were locked in that prison together. Heaven and hell are bound to be a shambles. That leaves the field clear for an antagonist like Azazel. Here's hoping they give us someone as interesting as YED!
And hey, we got the usual cliffhanger - I'm desperately interested in what's going to happen next. Will Dean and Lisa become a functional couple, being as their relationship is based off of hot sex and idealization? What's the deal with Sammy? (God, poor Sammy! D:) Is Castiel really sticking it out in heaven? (Will Misha be back next season!?) Will Bobby continue to be so goddamn lovable and awesome? ♥
I should also note that I was pleasantly surprised by Jared. His first time out as Samifer was not particularly inspiring. This episode, with the increased physicality and sheer meanness, was perhaps easier for him to handle. He did a great job, as he often does with these parts (Meg, blood-addled!Sam). Go Jared!
idk, more detailed reaction post may follow
Alternate:
http://schmevil.dreamwidth.org/250396.html.