Like kaching said in the post above:
"No, that's an interpretation on your part, based on assumption. What it actually states is that they're still working on the balance between exploration and linear storytelling, they want to do some exploration, but their primary goal is to take the player on a ride. However, the two concepts aren't mutually exclusive. It is possible for exploration to be part of the ride, so there's no clear way to precisely quantify the balance of linear vs. open yet, not based on this comment."
That is a possibility, and there are many things to consider, like that person's perspective of what exactly he meant by exploration. He could have had a different idea in mind entirely. If the game ends up having moments that allow for problem solving and exploration to some degree then I would probably be satisfied with that.
There is definitely a possibility that they are in fact trying to strike that strong balance between linearity and open design. I do hope the game doesn't end up being a glorified hallway though.