Matt Groening hints at return of cult classic The Simpsons: Hit & Run
A slip of the tongue at the Disney D23 expo has reignited hope for a modern version of the 2003 open-world title.
The Simpsons creator Matt Groening has suggested that the beloved 2003 video game The Simpsons: Hit & Run is returning to consoles. The comment, made during a panel at the Disney D23 expo, has sparked widespread speculation among fans regarding a potential remaster or remake of the title.
During the event, Groening responded to a question about the game by stating, "Speaking out of turn, I think the original game is coming back in some form." The admission was immediately followed by an attempt to retract the statement, as showrunner Matt Selman quickly interjected with "Or not," in an effort to walk back the creator's comment. Despite the immediate correction, the exchange has been widely reported by gaming outlets as a significant hint at the game's revival.
A Legacy of Chaos in Springfield
Originally released in 2003 for the PlayStation 2, GameCube, and Xbox, The Simpsons: Hit & Run was developed by Radical Entertainment. The game gained a cult following for its open-world approach to Springfield, blending satirical storytelling with driving and combat mechanics. For over two decades, the title has remained a point of obsession for the community, which has kept the game alive through extensive unofficial mods and fan-led multiplayer projects.
The Market for Nostalgia
The potential return of Hit & Run aligns with a broader industry trend of reviving classics from the sixth generation of consoles. By updating the game for modern hardware, Disney and its partners would be capitalizing on a proven appetite for the IP. The game represents a specific era of licensed gaming that prioritized humor and exploration, making it a prime candidate for a high-definition overhaul that could appeal to both original players and a new generation of fans.
What to Watch
While the D23 comments provide a strong hint, an official confirmation from Disney or a development studio is still pending. However, the timing may be strategic; a sequel to the original animated feature, titled The New Simpsons Movie, is already scheduled for release in September 2027. Industry observers are now watching to see if a formal announcement for the game's return will be timed to coincide with the movie's promotional cycle. For now, fans are left to wonder if Groening's slip was a genuine leak or merely a momentary lapse in corporate discipline.