I don't understand why companies don't just create virtual servers on existing hardware for older titles... So for instance, let's say they were gonna close the servers for Call of Duty Ghosts. They could close down the dedicated servers, and instead make virtual servers on the same servers used for newer games. I doubt they'd need dedicated servers for a small number of players!
Sorry, but where did you get this information from that the game is shutting down on the 31st December? That's not what Gun Media (the developer) says at all on their Facebook page
They said the servers will remain online until AT LEAST 31st December 2024. It doesn't mean they're shutting it down the very same day!