This taken from the FAQ...

• What comes with the Digital Standard Edition?This edition provides the full game and unlimited access to it for 30 days. If players pre-purchase the Digital Standard Edition on The Elder Scrolls Online Store , they'll receive five days of early access to the game and the Explorer's Pack.

Now, if it's full game and unlimited access why will imperials be locked? There is no doubt that the Imperial Race is locked, you can even see it when creating a character. That would make the answer to the question a false statement would it not? I know some of you consider it a bonus or reward, but it is content. All MMOs have different races/classes, that is main content for the game.

Because its a special "You want to support us and get a Collector's Edition version by paying a little extra? Then here's some extra stuff".

sad troll.

Attempting to be clever too. very sad.

== Elder Scrolls Online- 3 factions 9 races pick your race pick your side. this is what the game was advertised as and this is what you get when* you buy the game. ==

CE bonuses are just that - bonuses. You dont have to play the game as an imperial and you lose nothing by not playing as an imperial.

Could just as easily read "All MMOs have different pets, that is main content for the game" Wahhh I want all pet content in the game this is unfair I bought the game why cant i get all the pet content

spend the money or quit whining please.

You don't need a certain race to see the whole game. You have access to the whole game regardless of which race you play.

"Not saying that this is case, but would it be bad if it's an exclusive pre-order bonus?
Why shouldn't loyal fans who decide to buy or order the game in advance have an advantage over those who don't? Where is the exclusivity and sense of achievement when everyone gets everything?"

I don't want to say who said that, but they have the right of it.

I have full, unlimited access to my television. That doesn't mean I get every channel.

-Travail.

You also don't get full access to a mudcrab pet. And this is a horrible attempt at making a point.

That little bastard has collision detection enabled right now, super annoying. :-p