I agree it was not epic. It was good in that it leads us into some understanding of some things while still being bewildered.
Even though I do find Desmond's story interesting and I find it as part of the story-driven necessity for Lost, I am not "on the edge of my seat" thrilled during Desmond-centric episodes.

Quirky scientist is fairly interesting, too, but would not make me tune in just to see him.

In Second Season, I think, there were like 3 episodes in a row that was Jack, jack, jack and I grew sick of him.

My favorites, and the only ones I call 5stars, have Locke or Ben in it a lot.