I'm really surprised a hard release date doesn't exist as well as pre-orders considering September is two weeks away. The only reason I'm holding up on pre-ordering Space Marine is because of this game.
Setting aside your anecdotal evidence, where's your proof? Those of us who think that Rift is doing fine at least have a statement from Trion to go on. What do you have?
You won't have your box copy in hand when headstart begins. Everyone who bought a box copy and plans to play during headstart will be downloading SWTOR along with those of us who bought digital copies. :D Enjoy!
My interest is slowly dwindling. I think the entire genre is losing my interest due to the demands of my adult llife. I just don't have the time to sink into an mmo anymore.