Saber Interactive will not alter its communication strategy following a controversy where its CEO suggested replacing a writer with AI, according to Chief Creative Officer Tim Willits. The studio's leadership stated that the digital landscape often prioritizes outrage, and they intend to continue their current approach.
CEO Matthew Karch had previously apologized to writer Stella Sacco, who was at the center of the controversy surrounding the game Rideshare Simulator, after she alleged she was replaced by ChatGPT. Karch also commented that the digital ecosystem thrives on outrage and superficial takes. Willits, however, told PC Gamer that the studio had not revised its strategy and that he had found the week to be "insightful" but that "sometimes we 'say what we mean' too much."
When pressed about whether the backlash had prompted reflection, Willits reportedly responded negatively. He drew parallels to past controversies, such as player reactions to Saber Interactive releasing World War Z on the Epic Games Store, suggesting that such disputes are common in the industry. Willits pointed to the success of World War Z, which has been played by 30 million people, as evidence that games can overcome initial criticism. He expressed confidence that players are intelligent and will discover and appreciate good games, even in experimental projects like Rideshare Simulator.
"We are going to stick to making the best games we can," Willits stated. "Try to show them, give people an opportunity to play them, and have players make their own decisions because players are smart, you know. You make a good game, they'll find it and play it."
Saber Interactive has since added an AI disclaimer to Rideshare Simulator's Steam page, a move initially deferred by Karch until the game was finalized. Willits also indicated in a separate interview that Saber Interactive feels confident in its ability to acquire any intellectual property due to the studio's current standing and ability to navigate periods of low output from other developers.
The studio has several titles in development, including Turok Origins and Clive Barker's Hellraiser: Revival, both of which were featured at Gamescom. Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 3 is also in development, though details regarding this project have been scarce since its announcement.