Saber Keeps Firm Public Stance After AI Writer Row and Steam Disclosure
The studio says it will not alter how executives speak about AI and staffing, a choice that could shape industry rules on disclosure and worker impact.
Overview
- A former Saber writer, Stella Sacco, publicly said she was fired and effectively replaced by generative AI during work on Rideshare Stimulator.
- CEO Matt Karch made blunt, pro‑AI remarks about the situation and later apologised to Sacco after widespread criticism.
- Saber updated the Rideshare Stimulator Steam store page to add a player‑facing AI disclosure and said the game uses AI for voice generation, some localisation, music and an optional procedurally generated Free Ride mode.
- At Gamescom this week CCO Tim Willits told press the company will not change its communications strategy and Saber separately confirmed it will not use generative AI in Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 3.
- The episode raises wider questions about when AI augments versus replaces creative staff, how quickly studios must disclose player‑facing AI, and the reputational and policy risks firms face when leaders make abrasive public comments.