[Minoc]

I'm afraid you are probably commiting server-suicide.

My opinion is still that the ideal solution is to get rid of the NPC server and upload the old levels, but still, if you intent do scrap the server your method seems quite hazardous.

You have to realize that in order to make the server worthy of its name, and maintain its basic player-base (current active players and old players that return occassionaly) you have to remain loyal to the original concept. Otherwise, I highly recommend you to quit your position as manager and create your own server.
The concept is also quite important in order to create differentiation from the other servers.


In order to maintain the original concept you should follow a few key points:
1) Leave the server open, encourage players to submit personal content and use their contributions in the building in the new overworld (houses in towns, guildhouses, possibly even minor quests).
I believe the personal touch had provided a lot of the original server's charm.
Of course, you will not be able to get a decent amount of player contributions while the server is under-construction.

2) Leave the gameplay simple - there is no need to have a complicated economy on Classic. Allow gelats to be obtained by cutting bush. There is no need to have a G2K1 economy with a tendency to mess up, especially considering the relatively low potential amount of players.

3) Give the players something to explore - as you said, exploration is a major aspect of the game. I understand why you wish to make the overworld smaller, but I wouldn't go too far.

4) Maintain the old and simple level style - by old style I don't mean tile-errors. Avoid random-pathways and other styles that are often used in modern servers that do not reflect Classic's spirit.

5) This idea is a bit more controversial - get rid of the FAQ team until you find it absolutly necessary. Having an interactive online walkthrough of the server discourages player-to-player interaction.
It'd be better if players who get stuck in the game would seek their fellow players for help, instead of asking an official figure.
If you wish to explain basic concepts, have an in-game or a linked out-of-game FAQ.