Saber Interactive CEO sparks backlash over AI use and attacks on former writer
Matthew Karch denies replacing a lead writer with ChatGPT but admits to using generative AI in 'Rideshare Stimulator'.
Saber Interactive is facing intense scrutiny following a public dispute between CEO Matthew Karch and former lead writer Stella Sacco over the use of generative AI. The conflict has escalated from a disagreement over staffing to a series of public insults directed at a former employee.
Stella Sacco alleges that she was replaced by ChatGPT midway through the development of the upcoming title Rideshare Stimulator for marketing purposes. While Karch denied that Sacco was replaced by AI, he admitted that the game utilizes generative AI for an "experimental" free-ride mode designed to feature "infinite" passengers. This admission comes amid reports that the game lacked the AI disclosures required by Steam.
A Pattern of Combativeness
The situation deteriorated when Karch took to public forums to insult Sacco. He stated that, in retrospect, he would have been "happy" to replace her with AI, adding that they would then be dealing with someone "programmed to be honest." Karch further distanced himself from the former writer by claiming he had to ask the AI Claude who Sacco was because he had never spoken to or seen her.
This conduct is not an isolated incident for the CEO. Karch has a documented history of combative public interactions, including taking a "dig" at Gearbox CEO Randy Pitchford during the Rideshare Stimulator announcement trailer. He has also engaged with right-wing content creators, such as Asmongold, where he posted comments criticizing the act of "imposing morals on gamers."
Industry Implications
The controversy arrives as the gaming industry grapples with the ethical integration of AI in creative roles. Sacco suggests that Karch's hostility is a defensive reaction, stating that the CEO is "lashing out" to obscure the extent of AI use within the project. The incident highlights a growing tension between corporate efficiency and the protection of creative labor.
Beyond the internal staffing dispute, the lack of transparency regarding AI tools in the game's listing raises questions about developer compliance with platform standards. The public nature of the CEO's attacks on a former staff member is viewed by industry observers as highly unusual and potentially damaging to Saber Interactive's professional reputation.
What's Next
As Rideshare Stimulator moves toward release, the industry will be watching to see if Saber Interactive updates its disclosures or addresses the fallout from Karch's public statements. It remains to be seen if the "experimental" AI mode will be expanded or if the backlash will force a pivot in how the company handles generative tools and personnel management.