Yes, the box is deceiving...It clearly states on the back, "Join your friends online or play single player in the epic struggle that was the Eastern Front during World War II." Inside the front cover, it says, "Now it is your turn to experience the intensity that was the Eastern Front of World War II online with up to 32 players, or by leading a squad of A.I. in single-player." Also says on the back, "Internet Connection Required for Activation During Install and for Online or LAN Play."
Now, the "Single-Player," which is referred to above, is not your typical mission based, story mode, but, very much like Battlefield 2, just "Practice Mode," which is basically multiplayer with bots. You can also play, "cooperatively" on the LAN with a friend, and bots can be included.
I, for one, play many games on the LAN, and enjoy having the bots to fill up the LAN server. It is actually quite fun to go around killing bots with a buddy. Yes, they are not as much fun as playing online, but there are still places on this Earth were not everyone can get or afford a high-speed internet connection. If you think you would still enjoy playing the game with bots (just don't expect too much from them) then that is the most single-player you will find in this game. If you expected a full, single-player, story mode, then, I think, you should be able to get a refund, based upon what is stated on the box.
This game is still fun with bots, more fun with a friend, and the most fun online. At least this game has bots, compared to Day of Defeat: Source which does not have bots.
Hope that makes everything crystal clear for everyone, especially those considering buying the game.