Game is still profitable in some way. Lots of people with multiple accounts so they can multi-box and monopolize content (AKA sell nodrop gear for credits).
No one at FC works on AO. That means no bug patches, content patches, QoL or anything.
Here are a few of my posts ranting about the state of the game and how new or returning players shouldn’t pay money for this game. This may bring you up to speed. Note: don’t trust the AO fan boys.
The AO you remember doesn’t exist
Is it really worth it to consistently pay to play AO?