I finished season 1. Here's a little background before I talk about the show. Since this is a continuation of Ertugrul, there's an expectation of the viewer at the same time I think the writer expects the viewers to see Osman in light of Ertigrul. (However, you don't need to have watched Dirilis Ertugrul to understand Kurulus Osman).
if you don't want to read till the end, watch it with the mindset that you are seeing a different character and story. Expecting the tribe's situation or character to be in a certain way because you watched DE may disappoint you and keep you away from enjoying the new show. Additionally, it's unfair to compare a 5 seasoned character and story with a 1 seasoned character and story (pun intended).
First and foremost, the setting is different. Ertugrul was in a somewhat calm environment and where everything (the culture, the relationship) was slowly being developed. There were barely any big political circumstances and players affecting them, at least directly. The situation in Sogut is what after DE leaves us with in season 5, which is much more complex and different players are playing their role in the turmoil directly.
Ertugrul is portrayed as a calm, composed, witty, and strong person with a determined will whereas Osman is portrayed as courageous yet lacks wisdom and patience. Osman was a mix of Ertugrul with a hot-headed mind. I believe this feature about Ertugrul impressed many where it's hard to be impressed with Osman due to his imprudence and lack of thoughts before any actions and decisions he take, which was clearly intentional from the show itself but still.
Back to the first paragraph, it feels like Osman has inherited the mission and vision of Ertugrul and his way of doing things. We are thrown stuff so rapidly (like the strategies) whereas you get to see Ertugrul slowly developing and maturing with the tide. This is why I think it's unfair to compare Osman's first season with Ertugrul's season 1, and Burak Ogcivit's performance with Engin Altan's performance. DE season 1 had a good and wrapped-up ending. I felt KO was rushed near the end the there are some loose ties. I don't wanna spoil, but after watching Ertugrul, it makes me less happy about the way it ended meaning I don't things to be like Noyan. If you know, you know.
Ertugrul and Halime's pairing has been a favorite of many and I love their pairing as well. I can see the spark of romance between Osman and Bala every time they meet. They are such lovebirds. Given the current time we are living in, multiple marriages is a hard pill to swallow. For this reason, I can see why Ertugrul and Halime's pair will be supported and loved more than Osman and Bala's pairing. However, despite the different accounts, it's almost a fact that Osman had two wives. I am a little iffy about how I will take that when the time comes, but I hope my ship (Osman and Bala) sails despite all that, and to be honest, I've seen clips where it does.
I am glad Selcan came back and supporting the tribe like a pillar. Also, I like Bala's fighting shots.
Hoping to see more bonding scenes of Osman and his alps.
Now talking about the look :). Just like many people, Osman's look is not my type, but Burak is good looking despite. I like the season 2's look much better tho.
Lastly, I believe it would've been better if they took things slowly and showed the development of Osman's character and him developing strategies in more detail. Just because we saw his father doing similar things doesn't translate to him doing it. I like Bala's character and Osman's Alps. Looking forward to season 2.