Saber denies replacing Rideshare Stimulator's writers with ChatGPT
CEO Matthew Karch claims the game's story was 'written entirely by real people'
1Saber Interactive's CEO responds to allegations
Saber Interactive CEO Matthew Karch denied claims that Rideshare Stimulator's writers were replaced with ChatGPT. Karch stated the game's story was 'written entirely by real people,' except for one experimental mode. This statement came in response to allegations by former lead writer Stella Sacco, who claimed on Bluesky that she was replaced by ChatGPT during development. Sacco also alleged that passenger voices were AI-generated, which Saber disputes.
2Stella Sacco's allegations
Former lead writer Stella Sacco accused Saber Interactive of replacing her with ChatGPT. In a Bluesky post, Sacco stated, 'I was lead writer on this one! Saber replaced me with ChatGPT midway through development.' She also claimed passenger voices were AI-generated and criticized the lack of disclosure on Steam. Saber denied these allegations, maintaining that human writers crafted the game's story, with AI only used in an experimental mode.
3AI usage in the game
Saber Interactive clarified that AI is only used in an experimental mode in Rideshare Stimulator. CEO Matthew Karch explained, 'The game will feature an experimental, free-ride mode that incorporates AI as the number of passengers is infinite.' He emphasized AI tools enhance gameplay but noted the Steam listing lacks AI disclosure. Former writer Stella Sacco disputes this, alleging broader AI use in the game's development, including passenger dialogue and voices.
4Industry implications
Saber Interactive CEO Matthew Karch asserted AI doesn't threaten jobs, stating, 'As the industry contracts, Saber continues hiring. Our 3,000+ employees need not fear AI replacement.' However, former lead writer Stella Sacco countered, 'You can’t claim to support labor while admitting AI took work from writers.' This debate highlights tensions in the gaming industry over AI's role, with some fearing it undermines creative jobs while others see it as a tool for innovation.
5Game description
Rideshare Stimulator is an immersive driving simulation where players run a rideshare business. A teaser trailer showed AI-generated writing and audio for simulated passengers. Saber insists AI is limited to an experimental mode, but former lead writer Stella Sacco alleges broader use. The game's Steam page currently lacks any AI disclosure, raising transparency concerns. This controversy underscores growing scrutiny over AI's role in game development and the need for clear communication with players.
6AI's role in gaming
Saber Interactive defends using AI to enhance gameplay, with CEO Matthew Karch stating, 'We’ve used AI tools to improve NPC behavior since our 2001 founding.' However, AI's potential to replace human creatives remains contentious. Former writer Stella Sacco argues AI threatens creative jobs, saying, 'They’re trying to have it both ways.' This debate reflects broader industry tensions over balancing AI innovation with ethical labor practices and creative integrity in game development.
7Lack of Steam disclosure
Rideshare Stimulator's Steam page lacks any disclosure about AI usage, despite Saber Interactive acknowledging AI in an experimental mode. Former lead writer Stella Sacco criticized this opacity, alleging AI was used more extensively than admitted. This raises questions about transparency standards in gaming, as players increasingly demand clarity about AI's role in content creation. The controversy highlights the need for industry-wide guidelines on disclosing AI-generated content to maintain consumer trust.
8AI debates in creative industries
The Saber Interactive-Stella Sacco dispute reignites debates about AI's role in creative industries. While Saber frames AI as a complementary tool, Sacco sees it as a threat to human labor. This tension reflects broader industry struggles to define ethical boundaries for AI use. As gaming companies increasingly adopt AI, questions arise about preserving creative jobs, ensuring transparency, and balancing innovation with respect for human contributors—issues that will shape the industry's future.