'The Simpsons: Hit & Run' nearly had three sequels - Here’s what went wrong

The iconic video game 'The Simpsons: Hit & Run', beloved by fans for its open-world gameplay reminiscent of Grand Theft Auto, could have spawned three sequels, according to recent revelations by its developers. Released in 2003, the game garnered critical acclaim, which sold over three million copies within four years, and remains a nostalgic classic. However, a deal to expand the franchise was inexplicably turned down by its publisher, leaving fans wondering what could have been done.

Joe McGinn, one of the original game’s designers, recently shared insights about the missed opportunity. Commenting on a YouTube video by speedrunning channel Summoning Salt, McGinn disclosed that Gracie Films, the production company behind The Simpsons, offered publisher Vivendi an extraordinary deal. The proposal included access to the show’s voice actors and rights to the intellectual property—completely free of charge. Shockingly, Vivendi declined the offer.

This revelation aligns with earlier accounts from other members of the development team. Previous interviews with the game's producers, writers, and programmers confirmed that the studio had licensed rights to produce up to five games within The Simpsons universe. Following the release of The Simpsons: Road Rage and Hit & Run, however, the publisher chose to abandon the IP altogether, leaving the potential franchise dead in its tracks.

Calls for an official remake intensify!

Two decades later, fans are still reeling from the decision. The news of planned sequels stings even more in light of other setbacks for Simpsons gamers, including the recent shutdown of The Simpsons: Tapped Out. Despite these disappointments, hope lingers for a possible revival. Calls for an official remake or sequel to Hit & Run have only intensified, as players remember fondly the quirky humour, engaging missions, and richly detailed open world of Springfield that made the game a standout.

While the reasons behind Vivendi’s refusal remain unclear, one thing is certain: The Simpsons: Hit & Run’s missed sequels represent one of gaming’s greatest “what-ifs.” For now, fans can only revisit the original, cherishing what remains of a classic that could have been so much more.