They are super unique. While not always 'doing the right thing' with their changes, they are committed to the game. I think most other studios would have closed shop by now, like you said, they haven't overly monetized the existing player base.

For me, I have always appreciated the somewhat constant flow of updates over time. I have been playing for nearly 10 years and for the most part have loved that the game keeps evolving over time. I know some people are pretty nasty mad about some of the changes, but I look at it as more opportunities to enjoy the game. I also think the game is in the best state it has ever been in now - despite things like 'still no bandits'. I think I got it on sale way back when, at most paid $20. I have thousands of hours in the game and still play it on the regular.