Saber Interactive's newly released trailer for Rideshare Stimulator contains a deliberate reference targeting Gearbox CEO Randy Pitchford. The trailer features a Texas license plate reading "USB DRV" alongside a gear symbol, an allusion to a notorious 2018 incident when Pitchford left a USB stick containing pornographic material at a Medieval Times restaurant, which later became widely known and discussed[citation needed] [1, 2, 3].
Matt Karch, CEO of Saber Interactive, confirmed the inclusion was a "dig" at Pitchford. He said the reference served as payback for "shots" Pitchford took at Embracer Group within the game Borderlands 4 [1, 2, 3]. In Borderlands 4, an in-game location named "Embracer's Bluff" depicts trash and a talking toilet, widely interpreted as a jab at Embracer Group, which previously owned Gearbox [1, 2].
Karch further stated, "The dig is because Randy took shots at Embracer in Borderlands 4. Without Embracer, Randy is performing magic tricks at birthday parties for a living," referencing Pitchford's ownership of the Magic Castle venue and the loss of Embracer's backing [1, 2, 3].
Gearbox was acquired by Embracer Group in 2021 for up to $1.3 billion but was later sold amid Embracer's financial downsizing by late 2023 [2, 3].
The trailer featuring the "USB DRV" license plate was released by Saber Interactive in July 2026 [2]. The inclusion marks a rare public callout within the gaming industry, underscoring tensions between Saber, Gearbox, and Embracer. Saber Interactive has not announced further responses or updates related to the ongoing rivalry.
