Update:
Zenimax customer service fixed this right away, once they reached my problem amongst the sea of requests. Note - it took about 30 hours to get a human response. So, don't give up hope.
I am actually pretty happy with the response, even if I am not so pleased about the overall policy they try to enact en-masse.
The issue was handled in a very professional manner, and was a nice surprise, considering the near-complete radio-silence from Zenimax regarding all of the posts about this issue on the forum.
-Max
Previously, I had written:
I am furious. I paid for this game, which promises 30 days unlimited access, and cannot play without subscribing or purchasing a game-time card (which are essentially impossible to get, due to lack of supply).
I have submitted multiple requests over the past 2 days, regarding the fact that I have been cheated via one facet of the shady business practices which also include pre-authorizations on accounts in the amount of the full purchase price... Not good business.
If Zenimax is unwilling to listen to us, or address our concerns, believing that we'll just give in and pay up for something we've already paid for, allowing their strong-arm attempt to snatch up subs from those who intend to use game-time cards to succeed, they are severely mistaken.
If there is to be no acceptable recourse, which allows paying customers access to the 30 days of game time without additional payment via game-time cards prior to the end of the 30 days, and without requiring a subscription to be entered into prior to the end of said 30 days...
Then, REFUND my money. I will never play your game - regardless of how fun and amazing it may be - if this is how you are going to treat people who support your company. This is not how serious entertainment software companies conduct business for their MMO games.
I want the issue fixed, or I want my refund. Your choice, Zenimax.
Edited by MaximumCat on April 8, 2014 10:27PM