Saber Interactive to Add AI Label to Rideshare Stimulator Steam Page After Backlash

Saber Interactive's CEO has confirmed that the Steam page for Rideshare Stimulator will soon include an AI disclosure, following public criticism over the game's use of generative AI.

In an interview with IGN, Matthew Karch stated that the publisher is not avoiding the game's AI-driven features, which include generative speech and text in an optional mode. "Once it's finalized we will update the Steam page," he said.

Karch explained that the AI features were part of an experimental Free Ride mode, which generates an endless variety of characters. "It's not the core experience," he noted. "Even so, integrating these features required hiring two writers and multiple coders to work with AI tools to achieve satisfactory results. Perhaps we're not business-savvy, but the overall cost was significantly higher than if we had omitted them."

He also addressed concerns about AI replacing human workers: "My PR team is always nervous about this topic, but I'm open to a rational discussion about how AI can and should enhance gaming experiences. It's never been about cutting costs or reducing teams; it's about improving the game. Saber owns Digic, one of the top cinematics studios, and we have no interest in replacing that powerhouse with AI tools. We need to stay ahead of these tools, which means hiring more people. It's adapt or perish, and we must master these technologies."

Earlier this week, Karch was involved in a public dispute with Stella Sacco, a former writer on Rideshare Stimulator. Sacco claimed she was "replaced" by ChatGPT after leaving the project in 2023, a claim Karch denied. Sacco told IGN, "It's possible they changed direction later, but I was removed with the intention of being replaced by AI. AI was used throughout my time on the project, for both voice and text."

Karch responded that many games use Eleven Labs for AI voice prototyping, but insisted Sacco was let go for other reasons.

The controversy led to a flood of complaints on the game's Steam forum, with many demanding an AI disclosure on Valve's platform. Steam's policy requires developers to disclose visible and in-game AI, but not background tools.

Karch dismissed the incident as a "sideshow and a publicity stunt," adding, "This person was removed three years ago. We've actually increased our writing staff since 2023. If I wanted publicity for this little game, I suppose I have Stella to thank."

Sacco responded on social media: "Everything I said was true. And here's more truth: that statement is remarkably pathetic for a CEO. Combined with AI use, it will damage Saber's reputation far more than mine. This screed will be many people's first exposure to the Saber brand. I appreciate the support, but I'm a person of principle. One principle is don't let the bastards get away with it. I stand by what I said, and everyone saw the kind of man running Saber. This is my official public statement."