I'm well familiar with what you're talking about. I see it in the emulation space as well. Famously so with byuu/near.
We have all of the parasocial behavior from bystanders as well. Cult mentalities and hero-worship. It's quite a strange phenomenon.
Welcome to the artworld. 19th century European artist culture resurfaces. Don't cut off your ear :)
oh god yeah the emulation space is absurd.