Cancelled Plans: Anonymous Figure Halted Three Potential Sequels to The Simpsons: Hit & Run

Players still have a soft spot for The Simpsons: Hit & Run even today. It turns out, we might have had more adventures with the game if it weren’t for a hiccup from someone involved in its publishing journey.

Reflecting on the PlayStation 2 era, it’s hard to think of a game that holds up quite like The Simpsons: Hit & Run. Universally adored, it’s hard to come across negative feedback about it. Despite its popularity and significant sales figures, fans have been left waiting for a port or remaster that never seems to arrive. It’s almost puzzling why a sequel never happened. But now, there’s a hint of clarity. Earlier this month, the YouTube channel Summoning Salt, well-known for creating extensive documentaries on video game speedrunning histories, put out a feature on this very game. As GamesRadar noted, an enlightening comment came to light from Joe McGinn, the lead designer of this cherished title.

Initially, McGinn’s response was one of joy, calling the documentary “incredibly fun and heartwarming” from his perspective as the game’s lead designer. However, in a follow-up comment, he dropped a bombshell: there was potential for up to three more sequels—all without the need to pay for The Simpsons license. McGinn revealed that Gracie Films, the production company behind The Simpsons, had offered the publisher a fantastic deal. They proposed the creation of three sequels, complete with all the familiar Simpsons rights and voice talents, and literally offered it for free—no licensing fee required.

Given such a golden opportunity, and considering the first game’s success, it’s baffling to wonder why this proposal was never taken up. McGinn elaborated that “some crazy person at the publisher – we never found out who – said no.” It’s a decision that seems downright bewildering now and undoubtedly frustrating for the development team back then. However, now, 20 years down the line, there’s not much that can be done about this missed opportunity. Hopefully, someday, we’ll at least see a port make its way to modern consoles.