Problem is that I'm not sure when I hit the level cap of 20 that I'd want to pay $15/month to stick with it.
$15 is not a big deal, I spend more on a meal for lunch. $15 for a entire months worth of game play time. A game with other people and lots of content.
I played the following, WOW (4+ accounts) Rift, EQ 1/2, Warhammer online, LOTRO, EVE and many more.
So far The old republic has been a blast.
I have logged in well over 50 hours now (if not close to 70+) and for the price I paid I feel I already have my money's worth. I only have a level 30 along with a 12 (hand full of sub 10's) and I still have plenty of my first 30 days.
I will surpass a $1 paid to 1 hour played before the first 30 days run out, and then its all gravy from there.
You guys can say what you want but all games can be viewed as a "waste of time/money" but not everyone feels that way.
The story is amazing for the trooper and already looking better for BH and SI. The JC is good as well.
Finding a good MMO that you like can be a tremendous value in terms of money spent to time played. Besides Morrowind/Oblivion and fallout 3 no other games besides WOW, rift and EVE have managed to give me so many played hours.
I paid $85 USD for my (deluxe) copy of TOR, and then next month. Thats $100. However I will have far more than 100 hours in before the end of my first months time.
The Old Republic. I can't seem to get enough of it.

I know, I simply do not have enough time, its the only game lately that I have stayed up far later than I should have playing. Not even Skyrim managed that feat.
My main trooper's story is coming to a conclusion (act I, level 30) and its been exciting, can't wait to see what Act II has in store. The JC/shadow has been good to level 12. What really peaks my interest is the Sith Inq and Bounty hunter. Both (only level 4's) have had really, really good starts.
The combat is fairly standard, similar to WoW, but with no auto attacks.
Its the story and presentation that make is so wonderful. Add in the fact that when you choose a path or dialog option in cases its permanent. Social points and levels lead to armor that can be upgraded.
Flashpoints have been a blast.
I was excited for Rift and Warhammer online, TOR has melted my face so far. Sure it does have some minor issues, but the story is amazing.