The only game I ever pre-ordered was Story of Seasons, and I ordered it a week before it would come out. The only reason I did pre-order it was because I knew I wouldn't be able to afford to buy it upon release due to when I get paid and the tiny amount of money I earn, so I ordered it when I had the money.
Otherwise, I stay away from pre-ordering because I (and many others, especially the MMO community) feel that it encourages the companies to release a game before it's truly ready.
I know gamers get annoyed when a game's release date is changed to something later, but I'd rather have a later date and a game that works properly than a game released prematurely and needs dozens of updates to resolve issues (or even a recall, like in the case of the original/first Final Fantasy XIV).
If it means I wait a little longer for the game, then I wait a little longer and get one which works properly. Plus, by then, I might be able to afford it (especially if my living expenses for that month hasn't been too high). XD
Damn I hope this one is better than Default.. I was so disappointed in that.
All depends if they pull another Chapter 5 or not... >.>
I've seen some gameplay of the Japanese version; It looks interesting, but it's hard to tell at this point.