When I went last year the only time I got asked for my ID was when I picked up my badge. The rest of the time they just checked my badge everytime I went from one hall to another. That said it could change this year. They don't have photo ID on them, but I suppose they can alwas ask you for one if they choose to. Also, yeah all the best stuff is reserved for media, but there's plenty of stuff to see for general admission, most likely you'll end up waiting in line for it though. For example at Nintendo's booth we walked up at our appointment time and got ushered through to play Twilight Princess, while everyone else waited in line for 2-3 hours. General admission will still get you to see the big stuff, and the free stuff, and even some contests. Good luck getting passes everyone.