It is my guess that hard copies of the game (including CE) will be available for purchase well before the content actually becomes active. You'll buy the game (physical or download, CE or not), install it, and then simply be unable to access any of the new content until the content becomes active for everybody, all at once.

Quote Originally Posted by Nghthawk View Post
* Was mentioned I think in a Live letter or perhaps fan fest (someone else can confirm where), you don't need the buy the expansion to have access to the new area. You will however need it to do some of the content (what they details no one knows yet).
I don't remember for certain what they said about what could or could not be accessed if you do not have the expansion, but if they follow the same pattern as in FFXI, you:

- will not be able to access the new areas.
- will not be able to participate in any quests or instances in the new areas (including those for unlocking new jobs)
- will be able to use equipment and items from the new areas, so long as those items are tradable/sellable.
- will be able to level your current jobs to the new level cap.
- will be able to see and interact with other players who have unlocked and are using the new jobs and equipment.

And, while there's no precedent in this case, I strongly suspect that you:

- will not be able to start a character as (or Fantasia to) the new Au Ra race.