ⓘ Vivendi Games, Gamestop
The Simpsons: Hit & Run Xbox box shot shown Renewed optimism surrounds a potential Simpsons: Hit & Run remaster or remake. At the Disney D23 event, show creator Matt Groening hinted the GTA-inspired game would return. The studio behind the 2003 release has also reemerged, focusing on modernizing classics.
The Simpsons: Hit & Run is arguably the most popular game based on the long-running animated sitcom. Yet the Springfield-based spin on the Grand Theft Auto series has had no remaster or sequel since 2003. After promising signs in recent months, show creator Matt Groening gave more reason for hope at the D23 Expo.
A faux pas?
Empire Magazine recorded curious comments Groening made at the Disney fan event. When asked whether Hit & Run would return, he responded, “I think the original game is coming back in some form.” Showrunner Matt Selman then qualified his remarks by saying, “or not.”
The media outlet speculates that the statement was a slip of the tongue, but a reveal is planned in the future. That wouldn’t be surprising considering other hints from the inventors of the open-world adventure.
Radical Entertainment developed The Simpsons: Hit & Run for the Xbox, PS2, GameCube, and PC. Gamers and critics praised the release as a convincing 3D representation of Homer’s stomping grounds. The show’s cast delivered signature voice acting as players raced through neighborhoods and complete missions.
Four years following the 2008 Activision Blizzard merger, its new owners essentially dismantled the studio. However, earlier in 2026, many of the developers resurfaced as New Radical Games. A new website showcases Hit & Run and highlights its ability to remaster classic games.
Another licensing nightmare
Matt Selman, who appeared at D23 with Groening, also wrote the interactive Simpsons experience. In a March interview with People, he expressed interest in a Hit & Run remaster or remake. Selman cautioned that licensing issues were a roadblock, but told fans, “Never say never.”
Radical reportedly wanted to design a sequel after the predecessor’s success. The publisher at the time, Vivendi, turned down an offer for related projects. Disney now owns the rights to the sitcom, which may or may not make revisiting the favorite more realistic.
It’s unclear how the studio would update the Simpsons game for modern audiences. There may be an easier path through advancements in Xbox backward compatibility. Players can now access titles from the OG Xbox era on more consoles and PCs.
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Adam Corsetti – Tech Writer – 1501 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2025
I became interested in technology at a young age and enjoyed discovering the latest innovations. While earning college degrees in publishing, I created several PC hardware and gaming websites. My passion has always been to guide readers on what products can truly improve their lives. After many years as a Tech Writer for Game Rant, I’m anxious to share my knowledge with a new audience at Notebookcheck.
Adam Corsetti, 2026-08-15 (Update: 2026-08-15)
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