Matt Groening Confirms the Return of The Simpsons: Hit & Run

Fans of The Simpsons video games received some exciting hints at D23. While no official announcements were made during Disney’s showcase, series creator Matt Groening hinted that the iconic *The Simpsons: Hit & Run* is “coming back in some form” during a separate panel discussion.

There have been several games based on *The Simpsons*, but *Hit & Run*, which launched in 2003, stands out as a beloved GTA-style adventure that captured the hearts of millions. Players still fondly recall their time with the game, which was available on GameCube, PlayStation 2, and original Xbox. Unfortunately, it has never been re-released, making it quite hard to access today.

Unless players can emulate it or have a physical copy to use on a working retro console, they’re out of luck. Even then, it’s not as convenient as if it were available on modern platforms like PS5 or Nintendo Switch 2. This has led to a long-standing demand for a remaster or sequel to *Hit & Run*.

It seems fans might finally see their wishes come true, as Groening mentioned that “the original game is coming back in some form” when asked about a potential sequel at D23. However, Matt Selman, the executive producer and showrunner of *The Simpsons*, quickly interjected with a playful “or not.” Still, this sparked hope among fans that the game could indeed return.

The franchise’s most notable recent gaming appearance was a mini-season in *Fortnite* that launched in late 2025, featuring characters as skins, iconic weapons, and Springfield as a Battle Royale map. While it was enjoyable, it only deepened the nostalgia for *Hit & Run*.

What Groening means by the game returning in “some form” remains unclear. It could mean a full remake or remaster, or perhaps a re-release as part of PlayStation or Xbox’s backward compatibility efforts. Sony regularly adds PS1, PS2, and PSP titles to PlayStation Plus Premium’s classics catalog, including Disney-related games like *Disney’s Atlantis: The Lost Empire*. Meanwhile, Microsoft has recently begun bringing several original Xbox titles to PC.

Currently, *The Simpsons: Hit & Run* is not included in Xbox’s backward compatibility list, meaning players with physical copies can’t play it on current-gen consoles. There’s a possibility that Xbox and Disney are negotiating licensing agreements with the game’s developers to bring *Hit & Run* to PC or Xbox Series X if they choose to pursue that route.

*The Simpsons: Hit & Run* offered a unique gaming experience filled with beloved characters from the franchise. It’s a tough act to follow, and many players are eager to relive those moments. Hopefully, Groening’s comments indicate that something is on the horizon, allowing players to once again recklessly drive through the streets of Springfield while listening to Homer chant, “I am evil Homer, I am evil Homer,” as he runs over his neighbors.