Saber Interactive has taken the step of adding an explicit AI disclaimer to the Steam storefront for its upcoming title, Rideshare Simulator, after a wave of criticism erupted over claims that the company had dismissed a human writer in favor of content generated by artificial intelligence. The notice, which now appears prominently on the game’s Steam page, is intended to clarify the studio’s current approach to AI usage and to address the concerns raised by the public and industry observers. The full text of the disclaimer reads as follows: "This update follows remarks made by Saber Interactive CEO Matt Karch concerning former writer Stella Sacco, who was employed by Saber from July 2023 until July 2024. Ms.
Sacco alleges that she was removed from the Rideshare Simulator project midway through development and that her responsibilities were subsequently filled by ChatGPT, alongside other undisclosed AI applications within the game’s creation process. In response, Mr. Karch has clarified that Ms. Sacco was replaced by a colleague he deemed more qualified and that her employment was terminated for a range of reasons a few months later.
He also added that, in hindsight, he would have been comfortable substituting her work with AI tools." The controversy began when former staff member Stella Sacco took to the social platform BlueSky to describe her experience at Saber Interactive. According to Sacco, she was hired as the lead writer for Rideshare Simulator in July 2023, a role that involved shaping the narrative, crafting dialogue, and establishing the tone for the simulation.
Halfway through the development cycle, she claims she was abruptly removed from the project and that the studio opted to generate narrative elements using ChatGPT, an advanced language model. Sacco further alleged that the company had employed additional AI-driven techniques that had not been publicly disclosed, raising questions about transparency and the ethical treatment of creative staff. Matt Karch, the company's chief executive, responded publicly in an interview with the podcast "This Week In Videogames." He said, "Stella who?
I had to ask Claude because I have never spoken to her or seen her," indicating that he had no recollection of direct interaction with Sacco. Karch went on to explain that Saber Interactive had already announced its intention to incorporate AI for certain aspects of the game and that a more detailed update would be posted on the Steam page once the feature set was finalized.
He framed the use of AI as a consumer benefit, stating, "We look at our use of AI in this particular game, which will be a lower‑priced title, as a plus for consumers." The exchange quickly escalated on social media. In a post on BlueSky over the weekend, Sacco wrote that Karch had "apologised unreservedly for the awful way he spoke about me in the press." She added, "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 separate statement on LinkedIn, acknowledging his emotional reaction. "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," he wrote.
"It happens and I am a human being. I have done what I can to rectify." The incident highlights several broader issues that are currently shaping the video game industry. First, the increasing reliance on AI for content creation raises questions about the future role of human writers, designers, and artists.
While AI can accelerate the production of repetitive text, generate placeholder dialogue, or assist with localization, many creators argue that nuanced storytelling, character development, and cultural sensitivity still require a human touch. The debate intensifies when companies replace full‑time staff with AI tools, as it touches on job security, creative ownership, and the value placed on human labor. Second, transparency has become a focal point for gamers and journalists alike. Players increasingly demand to know whether the content they experience has been generated by AI, especially when it may affect the quality or authenticity of the narrative.
By adding the disclaimer, Saber Interactive is attempting to pre‑empt further backlash and to align with emerging industry standards that call for clear labeling of AI‑generated content. Third, the episode underscores the importance of corporate communication during crises. Karch’s initial dismissive remarks—questioning whether he even knew Sacco—were perceived as defensive and contributed to the negative press.
His later apology, while a step toward reconciliation, arrived after significant damage to the studio’s reputation. Observers note that a more measured, empathetic response from the outset could have mitigated the fallout. From a legal perspective, the situation also raises potential concerns about employment contracts and wrongful termination. If a writer is removed from a project and replaced by AI without proper notice or severance, the company could face disputes over breach of contract or claims of unfair labor practices.
While no formal legal action has been reported in this case, the scenario serves as a cautionary tale for studios navigating the integration of AI tools. Looking ahead, Saber Interactive has indicated that it will continue to refine its AI strategy for Rideshare Simulator and future titles. The company plans to update the Steam page with a detailed feature list once the AI components are fully defined, suggesting a commitment to keeping the community informed. Whether this approach will satisfy critics remains to be seen, but it marks a shift toward greater openness.
In summary, Saber Interactive’s decision to place an AI disclaimer on the Rideshare Simulator Steam page reflects the growing tension between technological innovation and traditional creative labor in the gaming sector. CEO Matt Karch’s public apology to former writer Stella Sacco acknowledges a misstep in communication, but the incident also serves as a broader reminder that companies must balance efficiency gains from AI with ethical considerations, transparent disclosure, and respect for the human talent that has long driven the industry’s storytelling excellence.