In regards to updates, they have been lacking. But the dev(s) are still around, they haven't given up fully.
The servers are still good though. I'm pretty sure I remember Aron saying one time (others can correct me if I'm wrong) that the "servers are cheap to run and won't be coming down any time soon". If you do decide to get the L2 pass in the near future, it will be well worth your while if you like the game. I'll be the first to advocate for getting the pass, I've been playing for a year and a half and I still love the game. Play a round or two, make sure you like the game and it sounds like you do, then get L2. You won't be disappointed