Saber Interactive, the publisher behind the upcoming "Space Marine 2," has confirmed that an "AI" label will be added to the Steam page for its game "Rideshare Stimulator." This decision follows public criticism and a dispute with a former writer over the game's use of artificial intelligence.
Matthew Karch, CEO of Saber Interactive, stated in an interview with IGN that the publisher is not trying to hide 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," Karch said. He clarified that the AI component is an experimental mode and not central to the core gameplay experience. Karch noted that integrating these features, even experimentally, required significant investment, including the addition of writers and coders to work with AI tools, making the net cost higher than omitting them.
Karch expressed a willingness to discuss how AI can be used to enhance gaming experiences, emphasizing that his company's interest lies in improving gameplay rather than reducing staff. He pointed to Saber's ownership of Digic, a prominent cinematic studio, as evidence that the company values human creative talent and seeks to stay ahead of AI advancements through continued hiring and mastery of these new tools.
The controversy arose earlier this week when former "Rideshare Stimulator" writer Stella Sacco claimed she was replaced by ChatGPT after her departure from the project in 2023. Sacco alleged that AI was in use for voice and text throughout her time on the project. Karch denied this, stating that Sacco was removed for unrelated reasons and that many games utilize AI audio companies like Eleven Labs for prototyping.
Despite Karch's assertions, the "Rideshare Stimulator" Steam forums became a hub for complaints, with many users calling for AI disclosures on Valve's platform. Steam's current policy mandates developers report visible and in-game AI, but not necessarily background tools used in development.
Karch characterized the incident as a "sideshow and a publicity stunt," noting that Sacco had been removed from the project three years prior and that Saber had increased its writing staff since 2023. He humorously suggested that if publicity was the goal, Sacco was to thank for it.
Sacco responded to Karch's statements on social media, reiterating that her claims were truthful. She called Karch's public statement "pathetic" and suggested that it, combined with the AI use, would likely cause more damage to Saber's reputation than to her own, potentially serving as many people's first impression of the Saber brand. Sacco affirmed her commitment to her principles and stood by her public statement.