Pre-order vs midnight release

#0 - Nov. 15, 2010, 7:36 p.m.
Blizzard Post
So I was going to buy Cata digitally today, but saw I would not be able to play until 12:00 PST, or 3 AM my time. If I opted for picking up a physical copy at midnight EST, (which I did for LK) would I be able to play it immediately, or would I need to wait until west coast goes live?
#5 - Nov. 15, 2010, 7:56 p.m.
Blizzard Post
Heya Herpaderp,
Q u o t e:
So I was going to buy Cata digitally today, but saw I would not be able to play until 12:00 PST, or 3 AM my time. If I opted for picking up a physical copy at midnight EST, (which I did for LK) would I be able to play it immediately, or would I need to wait until west coast goes live?
This should answer your question:

    http://forums.worldofwarcraft.com/thread.html?sid=1&topicId=27497533857&pageNo=1#0

    Wondering exactly what time you’ll be able to begin playing your goblin or worgen or making your way to level 85? On all North American realms, World of Warcraft players who upgrade to Cataclysm will be able to begin experiencing the new content at 12 a.m. Pacific Standard Time (3 a.m. Eastern Standard Time) on December 7, whether they purchase the digital download through Battle.net or buy a physical retail boxed version in stores. Players will not be able to access Cataclysm expansion content prior to 12 a.m. PST, regardless of how they upgrade or what time zone they’re located in.
#7 - Nov. 15, 2010, 8:02 p.m.
Blizzard Post
Q u o t e:
When will race change be available?
Race change should be available now, however, classes such as druids trying to race change to Worgen will not be able to until launch.