Why is it that if a concept is used once, everything that comes after it is "stale"? The possiblity of humans creating an artificial intelligence that grows beyond their control is a great starting point for any number of stories. It's how you fill in the story that makes the difference.
With respect to the humanoid Cylons...it appears that they are going to have some sort of problem with "emotions"...Six is already struggling with her feeling for Baltar, and maybe Boomer will have the same problem because of Boxey? Now, I guess it would be hypocrital of me to say that would be stale, wouldn't it?