Saber Interactive has updated the Steam page for its game Rideshare Stimulator to include a disclaimer regarding the use of artificial intelligence. This move comes after a public dispute between Saber Interactive CEO Matthew Karch and former writer Stella Sacco, during which Karch stated he would have "been happy to replace" her with AI.
The disclaimer, which was conspicuously absent since the game's initial wishlist launch on July 30th, now clarifies the extent of AI usage. Initially, Karch had suggested the disclaimer would be added only once the game was finalized. However, the Steam store page has since been updated to include the disclosure.
According to the updated Steam page, the main campaign's story, characters, and dialogue are entirely written by human writers. AI tools were reportedly used solely for voice generation and some localization efforts. Karch had previously indicated that AI use was experimental and not core to the experience, requiring significant human oversight from additional writers and coders to achieve satisfactory results.
AI-generated content is featured in a separate, optional Free Ride mode within the game. This mode includes AI-generated passenger missions and localized dialogue. The disclosure notes that players who wish to engage only with human-written narrative content can skip this mode entirely. Furthermore, the game's radio stations feature a mix of human-made and AI-generated music, with the latter clearly labeled in-game.
Karch has used the situation to defend Saber's broader approach to AI in game development, expressing a willingness to discuss how AI can contribute to player experiences. He also characterized the controversy as a "publicity stunt," pointing to the growth of Saber's writing staff since Sacco's departure three years ago. He humorously suggested that if he sought publicity for Rideshare Stimulator, he had Stella Sacco to thank for it.
Following the public exchange, Karch issued a private apology to Sacco, which she has since accepted. Sacco stated, "Apologies are simply in too short a supply these days to spurn one when it's offered," indicating her desire to put the matter to rest.