Released in 2003, The Simpsons: Hit & Run, an open-world game inspired by GTA III, stands as perhaps the most cherished licensed title based on the beloved animated series. For years, fans have ardently called for a remaster, re-release, or remake. Matt Selman, an executive producer for The Simpsons, has once again offered a glimmer of hope regarding the game’s potential return. In an interview with People, Selman stated, “Never say never”.
Selman, who helped write the game developed by Radical Entertainment, admitted he “had no idea” it would achieve such lasting popularity. He recalled that at the time, following the success of 2001’s GTA III, the primary goal was simply to create a “Simpsons version” of Rockstar Games’ popular title, marking the franchise’s first 3D open-world experience after GTA 2‘s top-down view.
Selman also remembered a meeting from decades ago where there was initial resistance to allowing Hit & Run characters to exit their vehicles. However, this feature was eventually approved, despite the earlier 2001 title, The Simpsons: Road Rage (inspired by Crazy Taxi), not allowing characters to leave their cars. “It was a huge battle we had to fight to get in and out of cars. Luckily, we won that battle because it’s fun,” he highlighted.
Regarding a potential new iteration of The Simpsons: Hit & Run, Selman emphasized, “There’s nothing definite, but never say never. We know people love it. We know they want it, and that’s good. If we know they want it, never say never,” he concluded.
