The Simpsons Hit & Run Comeback? Matt Groening Says Original Game 'Coming Back in Some Form'

The Simpsons Hit & Run revival discussion heats up after D23 remarks from Matt Groening The Simpsons Hit & Run, the open-world, Grand Theft Auto–inspired game developed by Radical Entertainment and published by Vivendi Universal Games, has been a longtime fan favorite since its original release in 2003 on GameCube, PlayStation 2 and Xbox. The title is frequently cited in discussions about classic licensed games that fans want brought back to modern platforms. At a recent D23 panel, The Simpsons creator Matt Groening addressed the question of whether the original Hit & Run would return. According to reporting in Empire Magazine, Groening indicated he believed the original game could come back in some form. Groening’s remark suggested optimism about a potential revival of the 2003 title. Showrunner Matt Selman immediately followed with a more cautious tone. In journalistic terms, Selman tempered Groening’s comment by indicating that while the idea may be on people’s minds, nothing definitive had been confirmed. Taken together, the exchange communicates that the possibility exists but that no formal announcement had been made at the panel. Facts about the original release - The Simpsons Hit & Run launched in 2003 and was developed by Radical Entertainment, a studio known for adapting licensed properties into console titles. - It was published by Vivendi Universal Games and released on three sixth-generation consoles: GameCube, PlayStation 2 and Xbox. Why the game matters to fans and platforms The Simpsons Hit & Run has maintained a strong community following and is often referenced in conversations about classic titles that could benefit from a remaster or re-release. Those discussions commonly bring up modern platforms and digital storefronts such as the Nintendo Switch and the Nintendo eShop as potential destinations for legacy games, though no platform-specific plans have been announced for Hit & Run. What’s next The comments at D23, as reported by Empire Magazine, are the most recent public remarks from key creative figures behind The Simpsons. Until an official statement from rights holders or developers is released, the status of any revival or re-release remains unconfirmed. News outlets and publishers will provide updates if and when formal announcements are made.