That's unfortunate. If memory serves, the sequel was originally closed around '05 or so and brought back about four years ago, but the original game's servers have remained up since launch in the late 90s.
I'm happy that with Turbine shifting focus to mobile apps they let the DDO and LOTRO teams split off and take those games with them, but I suppose with AC only in maintenance mode, there wasn't really anyone to pick that one up. Still, it does seem to suggest that if someone wants to take over and makes a decent offer, Turbine might be willing to part with the game.
At any rate, I certainly feel sympathy for the die-hard AC fans.