Even tribes 2 is pretty high. The only real statistics are from the "Goon Haven" server, the rest of the servers are hacked to make them seem like they have players.
I'm confused over the intent of the OP. Empires has more players? Or Smashball servers have a fuller %, when they only hold 9-12?
... Christ, Empires has more players. I thought that was obvious. Considering I figured you guys know at about peak times Empires has like what, 60-80 people? I've been checking Smashball throughout the day and it seems this is as big as they get.