The Simpsons: Hit and Run Had Multiple Sequels Planned

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The Simpsons: Hit and Run Had Multiple Sequels Planned

Key Takeaways

  • The Simpsons: Hit & Run was supposed to have sequels but the publisher turned down a deal for 3 more games.
  • The decision was confirmed by former developers, leaving fans disappointed.
  • Fans are still hopeful for a sequel or official remake, as the original game remains a classic despite the missed opportunity.

As a dedicated Simpsons fan who grew up playing the iconic “The Simpsons: Hit & Run”, it’s hard not to feel a pang of disappointment upon learning about the missed opportunity for sequels. Having spent countless hours exploring Springfield, causing chaos with Homer and Bart in my virtual car, the idea that there could have been more adventures is tantalizing.

Originally planned as a multi-game series, “The Simpsons: Hit & Run” could have had up to three sequels. However, despite a favorable deal, the publisher opted not to proceed with further installments in the franchise. This latest confirmation about the intended expansion of the game comes from one of its lead developers who was directly involved in the creation of the original game.

As a dedicated fan, I can confidently say that among all the video games based on The Simpsons, none have left such an indelible mark as The Simpsons: Hit & Run from 2003. It was almost like Grand Theft Auto, but with the witty humor and iconic characters we love from Springfield. Fans couldn’t get enough of it, and within four years, over three million copies were sold! Despite its success, a sequel was never made. But believe it or not, that wasn’t the original plan.

Currently, Joe McGinn, who was previously involved in designing “The Simpsons: Hit & Run”, has shared some insights about how plans for sequels were initially in place but never came to fruition. In a YouTube video discussing speedrunning of “The Simpsons: Hit & Run” on the channel Summoning Salt, McGinn, under the username noviwan, expressed his thoughts on the game. Reflecting on the past, he mentioned that Gracie Films, the company behind “The Simpsons”, had proposed a deal to Vivendi, the publisher of the game, to create three sequels without any costs related to voice actors or show rights. However, for unknown reasons, someone at the publisher declined this offer.

McGinn’s Story Corroborates With Other The Simpsons: Hit & Run Developers

Despite Vivendi’s motives remaining undisclosed, they have been backed up by other members of the development team in refusing the offer. Earlier interviews with the game producers, writer, programmers, and another designer revealed that they had a license for up to five games using the The Simpsons IP. After creating both The Simpsons: Road Rage and The Simpsons: Hit & Run, the company chose not to continue with the IP, and thus no subsequent game was developed.

After two decades, enthusiasts are persistently anticipating a possible renewal of the license and the launch of either a follow-up or an authorized update. The discovery that this series could have spawned numerous sequels but failed to do so might be adding fuel to the fire for an already disheartened fanbase, given the ongoing consequences of The Simpsons mobile game, Tapped Out, ceasing operations in October. However, while The Simpsons: Hit & Run is gradually becoming harder to find as time passes, at least for offline play, fans can still revisit it. On the other hand, Tapped Out, practically speaking, is no longer accessible.

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2024-11-27 02:23