i think this game could use it. The only thing keeping me away is the low population. In a sandbox/large world, having other players running around makes the experience alot more immersive, and when i read about ryzom i feel a very strong urge to play it, but it just kinda feels like it would almost be a waste of time. I know they probably wont re-release it, just my opinion. But if they shut down for a year, did some minor graphic upgrades and add whatever content/tools they could that isnt in the game already, i would imagine and hope that the game would get a fresh start, especially since the game has gone through different development companies.

Hasn't it changed twice hands now already? 

Why trying a game is a waste of time? Do you play for a future investment or you just play to have fun?

The population is low but the game is absolutely playable. If you like it you play it.

And, actually, the population is growing.

If you don't try and see how you can judge?

A re-release would not be a bad idea, in general, but requires an investment by the company.

Closing the game for one year is really a bad idea.

Try it first and then, if the actual population really worries you, you can just leave loosing nothing but a couple weeks.