I was lurking on the forums and msn for a month or two before making my return last week, and i gotta say i was astounded at a number of "old school" players who were hanging up there boots, in such a short amount of time from each other. These were players who i've known, or known of, from way back in '06/07.
BUT
Equally, with the reformation of the (once) great, EPA, albeit with a fraction of it's original member base, this seems to be somewhat of a transition period.
I also agree with posts above mine talking of the overabundance of ATs, and agree that the turn generation rate has reached slightly over-the-top levels. I mean, especially in times like these with the "server-war" in full flight, you shouldnt be able to go onto the forums and have turns so readily available. ATs are such a valuable resource in this game, and it's part of the fun of war scrapping around to get ATs and making each click of the attack button count. Call me old fashioned

Anyway, to sum up, yes people are leaving due to impatience/boredom etc. But no, i don't think the game is dead/dying/going stale. I just think the game mechanics need a little kick in the pants.
~E~