Rifts is extremely similar to WoW, i been playing it since Beta 1, and its been enjoyable to say the least. I like the graphics, which are similar to Aion, but not over the top. Im supremely bored of WoW, and MMOs in general, but at least Rifts to me, is something new "theme" wise that i can try and get immersed into. Me and the guys i play wow with are also all on the fence about Rifts and WoW in general.

But in general, does anyone really expect anything different? MMOs all follow the same basic concepts (Minus a few), Grind, Quest, Gear up, for most pve'ers, everything will eventually be compared to UO, EQ1, and WoW.