Why is darkrp so popular?

It is so popular because it is easy for people to play without skills.

It's popular because it doesn't require you to actually play a role. It's just a glorified deathmatch mode with way too many rules. Get on PERP or NutScript RP or something if you actually want to roleplay.

I think its popular as people enjoy making bases and fighting off the huge hoards of minges that try break in, also its quite a social game mode, a lot of people to talk to,
if your trying to make a server, best bet is to try make something unique out of the concept that everyone enjoys, and don't rush it, people wont join instantly, make sure theres things for people to do when theres not a lot going on.

Because its so fun to play i even play it alot its just cool gamemode

Like zState said it's about being social or playing a certain role, if you talk with other players and actually follow along with your role, it can be a lot of fun, otherwise it's just defend against the minges yeah.

Because its fun, you get to make new friends and hang out/chill together while RPing

Never played but Arma Life Server are still the better alternative or not?

Clearly because alot of people enjoy playing it and is features

I Dont Know, I Personalty Dont Play DarkRP, I Use It To RDM Cause I get Board