Does subscription mean I can play the game?

Paid premium subscription provides some benefits (the whole list can be found here) while playing the game.

But you DO NOT require a paid premium subscription to play the game. After acquiring access to the game (more information can be found here) you can create a character and play on newbie island. After becoming familiar with your character - you can use a ticket to transfer to the mainland for 10 000 GF (If you purchase a contribution pack you will already have 1-3 tickets).