A) Interplay still exists. B) Freespace IP has been purchased for a mere $7,500. You could call that a steal. http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/09/interplay-retrieves-freespace-ip-from-thq-for-7-500/
I had no idea they were still around. And that's still a lot for some IP to an older 3D space sim, so sounds like they're going to make something of it. Really hope they can make a genuine sequel to the franchise as I'd buy it. That said I'd have to see it first...