That's not really what astroturfing is. Astroturfing refers to groups pretending to be a small startup, but are actually organized by and working toward the interests of a larger entity.

For instance, a group of activists may petition their local government to request new laws that restrict how corporations can exploit local water sources, under the guise of environmental protection concerns. But it turns out that activist group is actually owned by Nestle, who are trying to carve out laws that would drive out their competition and do little for the environment.

"Fake grassroots" = astroturf.

Zero dawn is probably a brilliant idea based on the current political climate. Problem is we have too many Ted Faros

I mean…the first one sold 24mill and was a must-buy of the PS4 era. It reviewed and sold well. The IP has legs even if FW didn’t perform as well. Maybe you hate it but I at least enjoyed the first one. I plan on playing FW when I am in the mood for an open world next 🤷‍♂️

Why are you so angry about this game? You seem to have a real axe to grind.

The myopia on display here is just astounding. "Because I don't like this game, I don't believe anybody else likes it either and its popularity has been faked".

All that's missing is that you start ranting about how Horizon is a woke plot to sap and impurify our precious bodily fluids

I am also afraid of strong female leads in video games.

astroturfing.
noun
The disguising of an orchestrated campaign as a "grass-roots" event – i.e., a spontaneous upwelling of public opinion.

What your describing is just a major studio selling IP. It has nothing to do with astroturfing.