well, the game wasn't really pushed back, it's actually the first realistic-concrete/official ETA US and EU markets receive, and it's going to have a beta for us later this year.
That article on WP is quite outdated on everything, and wrong on so many things also.
By the way, since the focus during 3rd CBT is going to be the Abyss, NCsoft's artists are releasing some more concept arts about this, Aion's US website as source:
June 24, 2008
The Abyss is a strange and eerie place. Realities are distorted; the norm becomes the unusual, the strange becomes commonplace. Perceptions shift and scale is altered.
Four new concept art images of the Abyss are now available for viewing and download. As with last week’s offering, a journey through this region of mystery and wonder will be a test of your skills and an opportunity to enjoy Aion’s PvPvE environment.
To see more of the Balaur’s home environment, be sure to visit the
Concept Art section.
