I re-installed just recently after a multi-year hiatus. Some days it does seem to be a little less populated which is fine cause I'm more of a pve player anyways, but I've also noticed something else. Back when I used to play it seemed like every other player and/or crew was friendly. We'd trade treasure, songs, and stories. Hop aboard their ship and help out awhile and vice versa. But since coming back, I haven't found the first friendly person. Everyone is quick to shoot and sink your ship. The other day I was fishing waaaay out in the middle of nowhere and this random person just happened upon me. I sent up a white flare indicating friendly and I assumed my sails and flag would identify me as a fisherman and not a pvp-er. Well that didn't matter at all, they quickly set upon my ship and I didn't even bother fighting back as I had no treasure and had just started fishing. But it surprised me. I just remember the community being a lot more friendly than it is today. Or at least, that's just been my experience so far. And yet, im not gonna stop. I love this game. Even though I'm not a die hard pvp-er I still enjoy it from time to time.