You can not post/reply in any of the forums unless your subscription to that particular game is active. E.G. I can't post in the Vanguard forums unless I have an active Vanguard subscription. Same goes for SWG & EQ2. The only time that this isn't the case is when I had a Station Pack.
You can post in the Trial forum and Newbie forum. But, that's it.
I prefer this format, because it keeps the disgruntled vets who've long since quit the game from tossing their often jaded opinions and rants in to the threads and getting them locked/derailed.
Another advantage is that people who've been banned from the game can not create an alt account to come back and post their drama. Unlike companies that rely exclusively on 3rd party game portals and forums like Stratics.
Just my .02 copper. ;)