Saber Interactive has recently updated the Steam listing for its title Rideshare Simulator to include a formal disclaimer about the use of artificial intelligence in the game’s creation. The move comes after a heated debate erupted over claims that the studio had dismissed a writer working on the project and substituted her contributions with text generated by AI tools. The full text of the newly added notice reads as follows: "This update follows remarks made by Saber CEO Matt Karch concerning former writer Stella Sacco, who was employed by Saber from July 2023 until July 2024.
Sacco alleges that she was removed from the Rideshare project halfway through development and that her responsibilities were taken over by ChatGPT, alongside other undisclosed AI applications throughout the game's production." In a series of public statements, Karch attempted to clarify the situation. He explained that Sacco "was replaced by someone he considered more talented and was terminated for a range of reasons a few months later," and he added, "in hindsight I would have been comfortable swapping her out for AI." During an interview with the podcast This Week In Videogames, Karch said, "Stella who?
I had to ask Claude because I have never spoken to her or even seen her in person." He continued, "We have already announced that we are employing AI for specific elements of the game and will revise the Steam page once the final feature set is locked down." Karch framed the use of AI as a consumer benefit, noting, "We view the incorporation of AI in this particular, lower‑priced title as a value‑add for players." The controversy intensified when Sacco posted on the social network BlueSky over the weekend, stating that Karch had "apologised unreservedly for the terrible way he spoke about me in the press." She wrote, "From the start I have been firm that my account is truthful; it now appears that the facts support my version. Matt expressed a desire to make things right with me. At this point I’m not sure what that looks like, and I need time to process it, but I do accept his apology." Karch also issued a separate public comment on LinkedIn, where he admitted, "I unfortunately got triggered by certain later comments (for reasons I won’t go 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 situation." The episode raises several broader questions about the role of AI in video‑game development, the ethics of replacing human writers with machine‑generated text, and how studios should communicate such practices to their audiences.
While AI can accelerate content creation, generate procedural dialogue, and assist with localization, critics argue that it should not supplant the nuanced storytelling and cultural sensitivity that experienced writers bring to a project. Industry observers note that the gaming sector has been experimenting with AI for years, using tools for everything from texture generation to level design. However, the public disclosure of AI replacing a human writer—especially one who contributed to a narrative‑driven simulation like Rideshare—has sparked a debate about transparency.
Players increasingly demand honesty about how their games are built, and many feel that undisclosed AI usage could undermine trust. Saber Interactive’s decision to add a disclaimer may be an attempt to restore confidence.
By openly acknowledging AI’s role, the company signals a willingness to be transparent, even if the wording of the notice leaves room for interpretation. The disclaimer does not specify the exact extent of AI involvement, nor does it detail which portions of the script were generated by algorithms versus human authors. This vagueness may fuel further speculation, prompting some gamers to question whether the final product feels less authentic or if the AI integration actually enhances the experience. From a legal perspective, the situation touches on employment contracts and intellectual property rights.
If a writer is terminated and their work is subsequently replaced by AI‑generated content, questions arise about ownership of the original material, severance obligations, and potential claims of wrongful dismissal. Sacco’s public statements suggest she believes her termination was unjust and that the AI substitution was a cost‑cutting measure rather than a creative decision.
The apology from Karch, while a step toward reconciliation, also highlights the human element behind corporate communication. His admission of reacting impulsively—"shot first and thought second"—reveals the pressure executives face when navigating public backlash.
It underscores the importance of measured responses, especially in the age of social media where statements can quickly become viral. Looking ahead, the gaming community will likely watch how Saber Interactive implements its AI features in Rideshare Simulator. If the AI components prove to enhance gameplay, streamline dialogue, or add dynamic content without compromising narrative depth, the controversy may subside. Conversely, if players detect repetitive or generic text that feels disconnected from the game's world, criticism could intensify, prompting calls for stricter disclosure standards across the industry.
In summary, Saber Interactive has responded to allegations of replacing a human writer with AI by adding a formal disclaimer on Steam, while its CEO Matt Karch has publicly apologized and acknowledged his premature reaction to the criticism. The incident shines a light on the evolving relationship between artificial intelligence and creative labor in video‑game development, raising important discussions about transparency, ethics, and the future of storytelling in interactive media.