Here's what the Planetside release says about it:

"We are very aware that many users may find the node based interface hard to understand and work with. We strongly emphasise that the Technology Preview release is aimed at higher end users. We will be developing a Standard version of TG2 for more casual users that has an interface similar to Terragen v0.9, but which makes it easier to leverage the power of the TG2 render engine to create scenes of outstanding realism and complexity."

For me, I have never had a problem with Terragen's interface. But the new "high end" interface is definately NOT "for more casual users". I am sure the High End version is for the VERY SERIOUS Landscape creators- and will probably have a PRICE TAG to match. There are High-Enders who have no problems with "geeky" interfaces.

But I would certainly PREFER a more User Friendly interface-which seems to be in the works for the version that will be for the rest of us "casual users".

The fact that Planetside is launching its T2 Campaign initially to High Enders is probably a result of Matt Fairclough (Terragen creator) having spent some time programming software for High End productions in California.
I think that has taught him where "the money is". Perhaps with this initial high end demo release in January he might very well get some needed investment funds from Tech Investment groups so that Planetside can roll out all the software, expand facilities, personnel, etc.

...Just my guess based on how I've seen other High Tech companies operate over the past 20 years!