In Horizon's case with its meta, I have a feeling it was trolled really hard. Perhaps they were trying to snuff out the high score for this PlayStation exclusive title as to not be above the comparable Zelda that would be releasing right away directly after it.
I can see why it could scare a critic. After all Horizon is in my opinion absolutely awesome, beautiful, and fun to play. I am totally happy with it and the it's the best game I've bought this year.
Zelda seems to my perspective received the positive trolling treatment.
Feeling like some might have turned tides to the their belief about things especially just because of Zelda. Here is a sandbox, 30 (ish) fps , washed out color, 900/720p, and single player.
The biggest kicker according to the meta's as to what makes a better game is this next little tid-bit....
... Horizon had full voice actors on quests. It got critisized for having some bad actors at some parts. Compare that to Zelda, as it is lots of reading text of what is being said.
