I was going to make a separate thread, but I guess the content fits better in this one.
What should be looked at right now as far as the server goes is whether it's more valuable as a server SLOT or a revitalization/rebirth project. Simply put, is it better to use this opportunity to continue the attempt to "fix" Classic or sink the toxic island and use this chance to make something entirely different?
A few of us foresaw this turn of events (ie: Classic as a server beyond fixing/redeeming). It's something of a vicious cycle. Lack of desirable content and/or player connections cause players to migrate to another server or leave Graal altogether, which in turn feeds that same fire. Classic itself didn't evolve disasterously; it was neglected as far as shaping where it should have headed. In my opinion, it was a cancer. It grew and grew with no beneficial or positive guidance and direction. The whole "too many chiefs and not enough indians" consistency also had a vastly negative impact on the server, as well as people who wanted to be the Jesus of Classic in its slump for the personal recognition. If those negative factors can be gutted out and avoided completely, the server itself, no matter where it's headed, has a chance of coming back strong.
I agree with what
Midi said in the other thread. I feel that only with a completely different batch of developers and leadership can bring about positive change. It's a much bigger feat than it sounds, but like Midi said, if it can't be done, then it can't be done. The Classic of 2009 was on borrowed time anyway, and it seemed like only the people that have no stake in it at all were able to see that.
If the only value the server has is its SLOT, then why not give it to someone or a team that can make something positive out of it? Maybe have a competition bid and have someone else make something entirely different with their own team.
(^That's my gift to you, Stryker)