How do I get an active service account?

[Elegance]

But does that mean I need to buy the game even though SE told us we can just use the Phase 4 client to play? It doesn't make sense that they would say that and not make it so we can just purchase a game code without needing to buy the game.

I think using phase 4 client to play just meant you can updated it to the launch client.
Buying a game code is buying the game no? O_O
Not sure what you mean on that bit.