No, it's a spyware program integrated into a horrible game.

Is there any recent documented proof that spyware is integrated into the game? I mean, for a TV Trope's article, that's a pretty ballsy accusation to be throwing out in the open like that.

Does this trope apply for the sequel?

Yeah really, I haven't seen any evidence that this is at all true. We should seriously check this, especially since it's said THREE TIMES.