The game has been out since 2002 i believe.. The only real major update, that didnt force players away was the addition of the very hollow space program.
Most of the updates, like the changes to the war leveling system, which got rid of raiding as a legitimate way to make game money, forced many old players away..
It feels like the GM has gone out of his way to make owning large empires impossible. It should be difficult yes, but dont make it so difficult you force players away..
Its hard for new players to get into this game, cause there arent many old timers around to teach them.. I have played off and on for 10 years, back in 2008 the game was much better, and ALIVE.