Saber Interactive has recently updated the Steam store page for its title Rideshare Simulator to include a clear disclaimer about the use of artificial intelligence in the game's development. The move comes after a heated debate sparked by accusations that the studio had dismissed a human writer in favor of AI‑generated text. The new notice reads in full: "This update follows comments from Saber CEO Matt Karch regarding writer Stella Sacco, who worked at Saber from July 2023 to July 2024, and stated she was removed from Rideshare midway through development and replaced with ChatGPT, while alleging other then‑unannounced use of AI in the game's development." The controversy began when former staff member Stella Sacco publicly claimed that she had been taken off the Rideshare project part‑way through its creation and that her responsibilities were handed over to a language model, specifically ChatGPT. Sacco also suggested that additional, undisclosed AI tools had been employed throughout the production pipeline, raising questions about the studio's transparency and its treatment of creative talent.
In a series of statements, CEO Matt Karch responded to the allegations. He initially asserted that Sacco "was replaced by someone more talented and terminated for a variety of reasons a few months later," and went on to say that "in retrospect [he] would have been happy to replace her with AI." Karch's remarks were met with criticism from both the gaming community and industry observers, who argued that the comments downplayed the value of human writers and appeared to excuse the alleged dismissal.
During an interview with the podcast This Week In Videogames, Karch further distanced himself from Sacco, saying, "Stella who? I had to ask Claude because I have never spoken to her or seen her." He added that the company had already disclosed its intention to incorporate AI in certain aspects of the game and promised to update the Steam page once the feature set was finalized. Karch framed the use of AI as a consumer benefit, describing it as "a plus for consumers" given that Rideshare Simulator is positioned as a lower‑priced title. The situation escalated when Sacco posted on the social platform BlueSky over the weekend, noting that Karch had "apologised unreservedly for the awful way he spoke about me in the press." She wrote, "I've been firm from the beginning that I was telling the truth; I think we can all now agree that it's been borne out.
Matt expressed a desire to make it right with me; at this time I don't really know what that looks like for me, and I'll have to take some time to sit with it, but I do at least accept his apology." Karch later issued a public comment on LinkedIn, acknowledging his own emotional reaction. He wrote, "I unfortunately got triggered by certain later comments (for reasons I won't get into) and shot first and thought second about how to respond.
It happens and I am a human being. I have done what I can to rectify." The broader industry context is worth noting. In recent years, game developers have increasingly experimented with AI tools for tasks ranging from procedural content generation to narrative drafting. While AI can accelerate production and reduce costs, it also raises ethical concerns about authorship, labor displacement, and the quality of storytelling.
Critics argue that relying on AI for narrative work can lead to homogenized dialogue and a loss of the nuanced voice that human writers bring to interactive experiences. Saber Interactive's decision to add an explicit AI disclaimer aligns with a growing trend among publishers to be more transparent about the role of machine‑learning technologies in their products. Steam, for example, has updated its policies to require developers to disclose the use of AI‑generated assets, including text, images, and audio. By complying with these guidelines, Saber aims to avoid potential backlash and to reassure players that they are being informed about the creative process behind the game.
From a consumer standpoint, the inclusion of AI could indeed lower development costs, potentially translating into a more affordable price point for the final product. However, players who value narrative depth may be wary of a title that relies heavily on automated writing. The balance between cost savings and artistic integrity remains a delicate one.
As the dialogue continues, both parties appear to be seeking a resolution. Sacco's acceptance of Karch's apology suggests a willingness to move forward, though she has indicated that she needs time to consider what restitution might look like. Meanwhile, Karch's public acknowledgment of his impulsive reaction demonstrates an attempt to take responsibility, even if the specifics of corrective action remain vague. The episode serves as a case study for the gaming industry at large, highlighting the importance of clear communication, respect for creative staff, and transparent disclosure of AI usage.
As AI technologies become more sophisticated and accessible, studios will need to develop robust policies that protect both their employees and their audience's trust. The outcome of this particular dispute may influence how other developers approach similar challenges, shaping the future relationship between human creators and artificial intelligence in interactive entertainment.
In summary, Saber Interactive has added an AI usage disclaimer to the Steam page for Rideshare Simulator after a public dispute over the alleged replacement of a human writer with ChatGPT. CEO Matt Karch has apologized for his earlier remarks, acknowledging that he reacted emotionally and promising to make amends. The incident underscores broader industry questions about the role of AI in game development, the rights of writers, and the need for transparency with consumers.