expansion question

I just purchased the expansions, yet when I launch the game, no change. Shouldn't there be some additional files downloaded? How can I tell in the game if I actually have the expansions? I see them associated with my account on the website. I'm very confused.

All clients have all files, whether purchased or not. Purchasing only unlocks content. You can check in the Story Journal if you have access to Heart of Thorns or Path of Fire Story content, and thus, the maps.

Good luck.

I don't know if this applies only to purchases from retailers - after buying the expansion it still needs to be activated by entering the code on the website. The website itself should tell you if this was successful or not, no need to even start the game.

But regardless of where the purchase was made and if a code was entered or not: going to guildwars2.com and clicking on "MyAccount" (Second from top in the "Services" pulldownmenu) lets you login to the website and shows you which games and which expansions are active.

You're fine. All clients are the same. You just buy 'permission' to enter and play the new expansion and get access to the new specializations / achievements.

Start playing Sparking the Flame in personal story to start your journey to the Crystal Desert.