Trying to find where I saw it now...
Meh I can't find it anywhere but I'm also not seeing this screenshot that you linked in any of the articles about eqnext.
That being said, these parts of that screenshot are also suspect to me:
[You must be logged in to view images. Log in or Register.]
Look at the area beyond the gate. Also look at the artistic fading in the background to simulate light/haze.
Also, just my opinion but that doesn't look like a 3d skybox to me.
You are absolutely right about the rock looking digital, but as I've stated before this image was probably done or at least edited digitally. Most images are nowadays. I'm also curious as to why I can't find this image in any of the articles.
Another thing which I didn't point at, the windows. What's with the yellow? IS that supposed to be the reflection of the sun or are we to assume that there are lights on in there? Seems like a painting technique to me.
Like I said, I don't have any solid evidence to back it up, these are just my opinions based on observation.