Despite widespread backlash over CEO Matthew Karch’s remarks about potentially using AI to replace a writer for the upcoming Rideshare Stimulator, Saber Interactive has no intention of changing its public communications strategy. The studio’s Chief Creative Officer confirmed that despite attention from both industry professionals and the press, no adjustments will be made to their established communications methods following the incident.
CCO: Company Will Not Shift Strategy Amid AI Writer Debate
The controversy began when Karch stated he “would […] have been happy to replace [a writer] with AI” regarding Stella Sacco, who claimed she lost her job to ChatGPT on Rideshare Stimulator. Following a significant outcry across social media and gaming forums, Karch reached out with a direct apology to Sacco, later addressing the uproar further in a LinkedIn post where he characterized the reactions as mostly “outrage and surface-level takes” and reflected on the week as “insightful.”
Interviewed by PC Gamer, Saber Interactive’s Tim Willits recognized the studio’s habit of being very direct in its statements, admitting, “we say what we mean too much.” Nonetheless, Willits underlined that there have been no modifications to official communication policies, even with the negative feedback received.
Handling Controversy Is Routine, Says Willits
Willits was clear when questioned about whether the backlash prompted internal reconsideration: “no.” He reflected on his long gaming industry career, pointing out that such uproars are part and parcel of the business. Citing previous incidents, like the outrage when Saber shifted World War Z to the Epic Games platform, Willits remarked, “People were like, ‘oh, Saber’s destroying the industry.’ Now 30 million people have played World War Z.” He explained that, in the end, the quality of their titles—including Rideshare Stimulator—will ultimately shape public perception.
He encouraged players to try the latest game and draw their own conclusions once released, stating, “If they don’t like it, fine.” Willits reiterated Saber’s dedication to building top-notch games, maintaining that the audience will be the ultimate judge: “You make a good game, they’ll find it and play it.”
Studio Updates AI Policy and Teases New Projects
After Stella Sacco reported being replaced by ChatGPT, the studio introduced an AI disclaimer to the Rideshare Stimulator Steam page. This notice, which was missing when wishlisting started on 30th July, has recently been added. Although Karch originally stated such information would be included after the game’s completion, the page now visibly reflects the AI involvement.
In an interview with Eurogamer, Willits also outlined ambitions to secure high-profile intellectual properties, emphasizing that Saber is in a strong position: “we can get any IP.” He acknowledged gaps between major releases faced by other studios and underlined Saber’s confidence in landing big projects.
Among its current slate, Saber Interactive is developing Turok Origins and Clive Barker’s Hellraiser: Revival, both shown during Gamescom, as well as Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 3, which hasn’t seen recent updates since its first announcement.
As controversy continues to swirl, Saber Interactive is forging ahead, staying committed to its outspoken communication style and development ambitions without making internal strategic changes.