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.
In the original statement posted on the Steam page, Saber explains that the new notice is intended to be transparent with players about which aspects of the game were created with the assistance of machine‑learning tools. The controversy began when former writer Stella Sacco, who was employed by Saber from July 2023 until July 2024, publicly claimed that she was removed from the Rideshare project midway through production and that her responsibilities were subsequently filled by ChatGPT. Sacco also alleged that the studio had employed other, still‑undisclosed AI technologies throughout the game's development cycle, raising concerns about the ethical treatment of staff and the integrity of the creative process.
In response to these allegations, CEO Matt Karch issued a statement attempting to clarify the situation. He asserted that Sacco was "replaced by someone more talented and terminated for a variety of reasons a few months later," and he added that, looking back, he would have been comfortable substituting her role with AI. Karch's remarks suggested that the decision to use AI was not a covert experiment but rather a strategic choice aimed at streamlining production and reducing costs.
During an interview with the podcast This Week In Videogames, Karch further emphasized his unfamiliarity with Sacco, saying, "Stella who? I had to ask Claude because I have never spoken to her or seen her." He went on to confirm that the studio had indeed incorporated AI for certain components of the game and promised to update the Steam page once the final feature set was locked down. According to Karch, the use of AI in a lower‑priced title like Rideshare Simulator should be viewed as a benefit for consumers, potentially lowering the price point while maintaining a high level of polish. The discussion took another turn 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 shared a separate public comment on LinkedIn, where he admitted to an emotional reaction that led to a hasty response. "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 has reignited a broader industry conversation about the role of AI in game development. While many studios tout AI as a tool for accelerating asset creation, narrative generation, and quality‑assurance testing, critics warn that reliance on automated systems could marginalize creative professionals and erode the authenticity of storytelling.
In Saber Interactive's case, the company appears to be walking a fine line between embracing technological efficiency and maintaining a respectful workplace environment. From a consumer perspective, the added disclaimer on Steam serves a dual purpose.
First, it provides transparency, allowing players to make informed decisions about purchasing a game that incorporates AI‑generated content. Second, it sets a precedent for other developers who may be considering similar approaches. By openly acknowledging the presence of AI, Saber hopes to preempt further backlash and demonstrate a commitment to ethical disclosure. The situation also highlights the importance of clear communication within development teams.
Sacco's claim that she was replaced without adequate notice or explanation underscores potential gaps in internal processes when AI tools are introduced. Companies that wish to integrate AI responsibly must establish robust policies that address staffing changes, intellectual property rights, and the ethical implications of automating creative tasks. Looking ahead, the gaming community will likely watch how Saber Interactive implements the promised updates to the Steam page and whether the studio takes additional steps to reconcile with former staff members.
The apology from Karch, while a positive gesture, may need to be accompanied by concrete actions—such as offering severance, public acknowledgment of contributions, or opportunities for re‑employment—to fully repair trust. In summary, Saber Interactive's recent addition of an AI disclaimer to Rideshare Simulator's Steam listing reflects an effort to be transparent amid accusations of replacing a human writer with ChatGPT. CEO Matt Karch has publicly apologized to former writer Stella Sacco, acknowledging an impulsive reaction to criticism. The episode serves as a case study in the evolving relationship between artificial intelligence and creative labor in the video game industry, emphasizing the need for clear policies, ethical considerations, and open dialogue between developers, employees, and the gaming audience.