I will never understand what everyone is talking about

It's still funny, but there was definitely a tone shift in the show from S3 onwards. The best of NG is a blend of humor and heart. I don't think every episode has to advance the storyline, but I think just having the show be a "joke machine" with no grounding or realism in their characters or the way they interact is a detriment to the show and especially what the actors are capable of.

It's kind of ironic that Jess was the one criticizing Nick for not maturing when she has been stuck in neutral for a while. Everyone else around her has grown up while she has been stuck in the same place. Also, Nick actually seemed more mature, albeit more emotionally repressed, in S1/S2. They regressed him a lot in S4/S5 but they seem to have plans to "age him up" again (probably when Reagan comes back and the audience actually sees how they are in a relationship together).

I also think a lot of people are tired of the litany of guest stars who have taken the focus away from the core group. I wasn't a fan of them adding Sam back. I'm also neutral on Reagan but I'm giving the writers the side-eye on how hard they have pushed her in the marketing of NG. I don't see how she has come to be more important any other guest star or character the show has had. The writers/marketing department definitely treat her that way, but fans seem pretty split on that. Frankly, I would like more Aly or Tran instead. They just blend in better with the NG world.

I agree with you 100%. Still love the show and think it's just as funny as ever. The weird conversations and awkward situations just make the characters more endearing and relatable.

"Two gin and Frescas"
"Shaken, not ridiculed"

I agree. Funniest show on tv. Has made me laugh more than any other. Like ugly cry laugh

I actually came here to get a better idea of why people think this show is funny.

I watched one episode the first season and didn't like it, then watched it again for the Brooklyn 99 crossover.

My assessment, just since you seem to be asking why people might not like it...

Zooey is the only one of the cast that pulls off the style of comedy they use in the show. Everyone else is desperately trying to get laughs and they all fall flat.

My theory is because it is a lot of "Man...wait till this airs, this is comedy gold." I don't believe in the characters at all because all I can see are the actors desperately trying to be the funniest...which is a massive turn off for me in all comedy.

They can't all be the comedic relief.

(No criticism meant in this, like what you like.)