Groening says Hit & Run is coming back but looks like he wasn’t supposed to

For years, the sprawling open world of The Simpsons: Hit and Run has existed in a state of digital limbo. Yet, whispers from the creative camp suggest that this cult classic is finally poised for a dramatic return, promising a chance to revisit one of gaming’s most beloved comedic worlds.

Series creator Matt Groening, known for his deep connection to the franchise, recently hinted at a potential revival. During a recent appearance at D23 2026, Groening casually suggested that something in the original game was likely returning in some form. This statement immediately sparked fan excitement, though it was tempered by a note of caution from current showrunner Matt Selman, who indicated that any such future is still up for discussion.

The story behind the potential remake involves navigating a complex web of intellectual property ownership. The game’s history is tangled, having originally been published by Vivendi before being acquired by Activision and subsequently brought under Microsoft’s umbrella in 2023. While Disney owns the overarching Simpsons franchise, determining which entity holds the authority to greenlight a continuation or remaster of Hit and Run remains an open question.

This murky ownership landscape has meant that development efforts have stalled. Radical Entertainment had begun work on a sequel immediately following the original game’s release, but the project was ultimately canceled when licensing issues arose with Vivendi, preventing further development outside of its original platforms like GameCube, PS2, Xbox, and Windows PC.

After more than two decades, many fans have settled into a state of hopeful waiting, embracing the idea that a remake or sequel might never happen. However, Groening’s recent comments inject a much-needed dose of optimism, fueling the belief that the time is right for the franchise to finally embark on its next chapter.

With the possibility of a new iteration on the table, the anticipation among fans and developers is palpable. If the original game’s legacy is what it is, bringing The Simpsons: Hit and Run back into the spotlight could be a major event for open-world gaming.