I have been around a long time, and it is the same in every world, top 12 alliance discussions, milestones, newspapers and Pnp's
So no, it was never really that great, you had the occasional witty posts with comedic geniuses such as rooster however it never was the way your describing it.
Maybe when they first decided to come up with milestones and newspapers it was interesting..
I just wonder why its a big deal to have some interested people have conversations that keep the world forums active (as it never lasts long)
So please, if you think you can come up with more interesting posts that will keep this world's forums alive do so. but don't discourage people from using the forums.