I just read the playtest version, so now I understand what the OP is talking about. It's okay with a longer range and an attack roll instead of a saving throw, but I don't prefer it, so I chose "other", meaning keep the 2014 version. By using a save, that version allowed it to be used in melee as a "reach" cantrip, possibly as part of a surprise attack. The playtest version is just another ranged cantrip.
Eta: The reason I'm not choosing "yes" is, as I posted up-thread, with only a 10' range, I don't think an AoE is needed or helpful for adjudication. However, it could be thought of as a 7.5' cone, but if more than one creature is within the AoE, I'd say the caster has to choose one as the target.