This is not true, this change is a recent phenomenon, I believe it came into effect sometime around 2021-2023 (maybe earlier even). I believe it changed when OpenAI showed the value of data.
Before, there was no problem using Instagram or Twitter while not logged in. Now there is a dark pattern that forces you to create an account, or log in.
Oh, I would love this. I think it could work very well as a real-time game, but with the caveat that when units begin attacking each other the micro control is temporarily relinquished, so that you can direct the events via high-level orders and a strategy behavior for the AIs simulating the battle on each side.