Saber Interactive has recently updated the Steam listing 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 dispute 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 new disclaimer 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 midway through production and that her responsibilities were taken over by ChatGPT, alongside other undisclosed AI applications throughout the game's creation." In a series of interviews and social‑media posts, Karch attempted to clarify the situation. He said that Sacco was "replaced by someone more talented and terminated for a variety of reasons a few months later," and added that, looking back, "I would have been comfortable replacing her with AI." He further explained that he had never actually met Sacco, noting, "Stella who? I had to ask Claude because I have never spoken to her or seen her," during a conversation with the podcast This Week In Videogames.
Karch reiterated that the studio had already disclosed its intention to employ AI for certain aspects of the game and promised to update the Steam page once the final feature set was locked in. "We view our use of AI in this particular title, which will be positioned as a lower‑priced offering, as a benefit for consumers," Karch said, attempting to frame the technology as a value‑adding element rather than a cost‑cutting measure. The controversy escalated when Sacco posted on the social platform BlueSky over the weekend, stating 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.
"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 admitted. "It happens and I am a human being. I have done what I can to rectify." The incident highlights a broader industry debate about the role of AI in creative processes.
On one hand, developers argue that AI can speed up content generation, reduce repetitive tasks, and allow smaller studios to produce higher‑quality assets without the expense of large teams. On the other hand, critics warn that reliance on AI could marginalize human writers, artists, and programmers, potentially eroding the unique voice and craftsmanship that define many games.
In the case of Rideshare Simulator, the game itself is marketed as an affordable, niche simulation that puts players behind the wheel of a ridesharing vehicle, navigating city traffic, managing passenger expectations, and dealing with the everyday challenges of gig‑economy work. The developers have positioned AI as a tool to flesh out dialogue, generate procedural cityscapes, and perhaps even assist in balancing gameplay mechanics. However, the specific claim that a human writer was removed and replaced entirely by ChatGPT raised concerns about transparency and labor practices.
Industry observers note that the timing of the disclaimer is significant. Steam, as a major distribution platform, has begun to enforce stricter guidelines around AI disclosure, especially after several high‑profile controversies involving AI‑generated art and narratives. By adding the notice, Saber Interactive appears to be aligning with these emerging standards, aiming to avoid potential penalties or community backlash.
The reaction from the gaming community has been mixed. Some players appreciate the studio's willingness to be upfront about AI usage, viewing it as a sign of honesty and modernity.
Others remain skeptical, fearing that the reliance on AI could lead to generic, less immersive storytelling. The discussion has also sparked conversations about the ethical responsibilities of studios when it comes to crediting human contributors and ensuring fair treatment of staff.
From a legal standpoint, there are no clear regulations yet that dictate how AI must be disclosed in video games, but consumer protection laws in several jurisdictions could be interpreted to require transparency when AI significantly influences the product. As a result, many publishers are preemptively adding statements to avoid future litigation. Looking ahead, Karch's apology and the updated disclaimer may serve as a case study for other developers navigating the delicate balance between innovation and responsibility. The episode underscores the importance of clear communication, especially when new technologies intersect with human labor.
In summary, Saber Interactive's decision to place an AI disclaimer on the Steam page for Rideshare Simulator reflects both a response to specific allegations involving former writer Stella Sacco and a broader industry shift toward greater openness about AI tools. CEO Matt Karch's public acknowledgment of his impulsive reaction and his expressed desire to make amends illustrate the personal dimension of these corporate challenges.
As AI continues to permeate game development, the community will likely watch closely how studios handle disclosure, credit, and the treatment of their creative staff.