the problem with updating the game is that the staff cannot do so without the source code, which has been gone for quite some time now. although it'd be nice to maybe have a bit more features and even updated graphics, with what the staff has that isn't possible.
there is another map update coming, though information about it has been scarce, but seemingly fairly soon!
as for feralheart dying, i haven't been on for a few weeks due to me being busy with school and other things, but from my understanding i don't believe feralheart has had a drop of players active. a lot of players are in mapped roleplays, and therefor in private maps. the public maps, yes, they can be a little barren from time to time, especially around exam season which is now-ish, as it always has been. if you wait until the summer though, folk should be more frequent.
in my opinion, i think feralheart is doing as well as it can. there's many willing roleplayers and friendly people to chat with in the game, and the holiday events the staff holds helps grow our little community here. interesting topic!