I wouldn't dismiss the article quite so quickly.

This image shows off several new buildings. I see some mushrooms peeking out from the grass. There's a (sniff) hitching post as well.

This shows an extreme close-up of a building. Look at that normal mapped stucco! The rear building has an interesting ladder leading up to the door. Perhaps it's cosmetic, or maybe we'll see some sort of climbing animation? The rear building also has an open window, which has possibilities.

This city image shows how curbs and the heightmap work together. The curbs appear to be big, tall placeables that buildings rest on. Here is a daylight shot of the same scene, showing off lighting transitions.