Oh wow, that hit me, its always nice to see a good message here and there.
Also i don´t think at all that SAMP is getting old.
There are just not many good servers.
And if a Server is good they usually have 500 players online, so there are people that long for a good server.
With the question for Gamemode.... mmh.
I really am not sure about it. You saw how OP a VIP with Keybinds could be.
But still, the Server has a monthly cost and there needs to be an income somehow.
Maybe change the VIP System a bit, so you could use Viparmor/Health only once every 5 seconds?
Would change allot.
Also, good maps. If a Server has fun to play maps, the User´s will come automaticly.
Maybe get a group of people together that works on new Maps? New Concepts?
I personally like the old gamemode. I played some other Servers with Packs and where you could buy weapons, it was too easy to put it simple. With the Rank System, you have something to work for. When you finally get there, it feels good.
Share your Ideas for a new Gamemode if you have any :)
Greetings Advanced