Saber Interactive has updated the Steam page for its driving simulator, Rideshare Stimulator, to disclose the game's use of generative artificial intelligence following a public dispute with the game's former lead writer, Stella Sacco.
Sacco claimed on social media platform Bluesky that Saber replaced her with ChatGPT for writing tasks and that the game utilized AI for passenger voices. In response, Saber CEO Matthew Karch initially denied that any writers were replaced by AI, stating that the game's story was written entirely by human writers and that the company's large workforce had no need to fear AI replacement.
However, Saber acknowledged that an "experimental, free-ride mode" in Rideshare Stimulator incorporates AI due to an infinite number of passengers. This mode, they explained, uses AI to prevent passenger repetition and maintain spontaneity. The lack of an initial disclosure on the Steam page was a breach of Valve's content policies. Karch later sent a statement to media outlets, accusing Sacco of lying and violating a confidentiality clause by revealing the AI usage before the company was ready. He also stated that Sacco was "replaced by someone more talented" and terminated for other reasons, adding that he would have been happy to replace her with AI.
Sacco countered Karch's statements, insisting her claims were true and that the CEO's response was "remarkably pathetic" and would damage Saber's reputation more than her accusations. She alleged that executives pushed for AI use, believing "gamers love new tech" and that it would be "great marketing."
Karch also spoke with other outlets, claiming that the free-ride mode required additional writers and coders to work with AI tools, resulting in a higher net cost than omitting the features. He reiterated that AI's role is to improve the game experience rather than reduce staff, citing Saber's ownership of a cinematics studio as evidence of the company's interest in leveraging AI for advancement rather than replacement. He used the phrase "swim or die" when discussing the company's approach to generative AI.
Previously, company executives, including those at Microsoft and EA, have framed generative AI adoption as a means to cut costs and adapt to new technological eras, leading to staff layoffs. However, Karch maintained that Saber's focus with AI is on enhancing gameplay.
The updated Steam page disclosure confirms that while the main campaign story, characters, and dialogue were written by human writers, AI tools are used for voice generation and some localization. The optional Free Ride mode includes AI-generated passenger missions and localized dialogue, and is distinct from the main campaign. The disclosure also reveals that Rideshare Stimulator features a mix of human-made and AI-generated music on its radio stations, with stations containing AI music clearly labeled as such. This latter detail was not previously revealed by Saber during the public exchange.