Rideshare Stimulator has updated its Steam page to disclose the use of generative AI, following days of controversy sparked by Saber Interactive CEO Matt Karch's public gloating about replacing the game's lead writer with ChatGPT.

The developer of Rideshare Stimulator has formally disclosed the use of generative AI on the game's Steam page, after Saber Interactive CEO Matt Karch made inflammatory remarks about replacing the lead writer with ChatGPT. The updated Steam page states that the game was made with the help of AI, but clarifies that the writing was performed by a team of human writers. It specifies that AI tools are used for voice generation and some localization, and that an optional Free Ride mode includes AI-generated passenger missions and localized dialogue. The game also features a mix of human-made and AI-generated music, with AI-generated radio stations clearly labelled as such in-game.

Karch's comments, which celebrated the replacement of a human writer with AI, drew widespread criticism and prompted the developer to address the controversy. The lead writer had previously alleged she was replaced by ChatGPT, a claim that the developer now partially disputes by stating the writing was human-led. However, the disclosure confirms that significant portions of the game—including dialogue, missions, and music—were generated or assisted by AI, raising concerns about the extent of AI use beyond what was initially admitted.

The controversy highlights ongoing tensions in the gaming industry over the use of generative AI, particularly when it displaces human workers. Saber Interactive's CEO has been a vocal proponent of AI, arguing it offers advantages over human labour, a stance that has alienated many players and developers. The disclosure on Steam is seen as a belated attempt to comply with Valve's requirements for transparency around AI-generated content, though critics argue the admission reveals a deeper reliance on AI than previously acknowledged.

Coverage of the story has been consistent across outlets, with both Polygon and Destructoid reporting the same core facts. The only notable difference is that Destructoid's headline explicitly mentions Karch's gloating, while Polygon's focuses on the disclosure itself.

• Rideshare Stimulator's Steam page now discloses use of generative AI for voice, localization, missions, and music.
• Saber Interactive CEO Matt Karch publicly boasted about replacing the lead writer with ChatGPT, sparking backlash.
• The developer claims writing was human-led, but AI was used for voice generation, localization, and optional Free Ride mode content.
• The controversy underscores industry debate over AI replacing human workers in game development.

This synthesis was derived and curated on the fly by TDGN’s newsroom from 2 outlets’ breaking reports, and updates automatically as coverage develops. It may contain errors — the outlets’ original reporting is linked below.