I don't disagree that it was the "last of the species" thing that was central to Red Dwarf, but when Series 8 came out, I just got the impression that it was either a temporary diversion or that they were driving the series toward a resolution. After all, they've been hinting since the beginning that Lister somehow gets home, hooks up with Kochanski, has kids, etc. and the stars aren't getting any younger... not that I want the franchise to end, mind you - ever. The way the series ended seems like an open-ended segue for them to return to normalcy (or a springboard to head further toward their story resolutions).
Even with the "last human" underpinnings suspended, I think the series found new ways to mine the characters while staying true to them and staying absolutely hilarious. There's a lot of "be careful what you wish for" humor - the hero back at a demeaning, neutering square one, after having been such a seasoned space vet, beholden to none... realizing Kochanski isn't simply going to fall into his arms... Rimmer back, like he used to be... and watching Cat and Kryten interact with others for, basically, the first time.
Unless the franchise does end for good right there, I think it will be seen as a passing phase, and - in my opinion - a worthy side-trip to have taken.
