This is why I about a month ago I suggested that OTM start work on CH2. They screwed this game up so much for so long that it will never see population increases again EVER, those days are looong gone. What they need is a fresh start, a do-over. If they ever make a CH2 they need to get it right from day one. I know alot of people put alot of time and money into this game myself included so if a CH2 ever becomes a reality I think the long time supporters of the original CH should get some form of carry over.
I think after 5 years OTM should have learned from their mistakes well enough to not repeat them again in CH2. I firmly believe if they gave themselves ( and us ) a new beginning that we would see more active players than the original ever had at its height of peak activity. But alas, all of this depends on them "doing it right" and after their attempts at introducing fishing, a mounted combat system, etc recently I'm not exactly full of faith in OTM at the moment.
Hmm, I would'nt suggest players to start from the beginning. I mean yes we can have a CH2 or someever, but you cannot make the time and money we spend on CH1 turns vain. At least make the character transfer or some kind of that. I know it's motivate old or new players to play CH more but, You can't just force them to play anew again how would it be fun?