Why The Simpsons: Hit & Run Never Got a Sequel – Confusion Among Developers

The developers of The Simpsons: Hit & Run finally sat down to discuss why the cult classic open-world game never got a sequel, and honestly, it sounds like they’re just as confused as fans.

The Developers Speak Out

Programmers Cary Brisebois and Greg Mayer, producer Steve Bocska, designer Darren Evenson, executive producer John Melchior, and designer-writer Chris Mitchell recently shared their insights on the matter. In an interview with reporter Ben Hanson, they revealed the details behind the game’s lack of a sequel. The conversation was captured in a three-minute clip and posted on the MinnMax YouTube channel on November 20.

As it turns out, a follow-up game was in the works by Radical Entertainment, the original developers. However, when questioned about why the production on the sequel was halted, executive producer John Melchior simply replied, “I don’t know.”

Melchior further elaborated, explaining that the decision to cancel the sequel was perplexing to him and others involved. The financial aspect was also puzzling, as the deal for the sequel involved less money than the first game. His boss, who was equally confused, had handed them the opportunity to create more games in the franchise but didn’t understand why they didn’t seize the chance. Melchior concluded, “It was just a really bizarre decision. I’ll never understand it. Most people on the production level never understood it.”

The Original Game and Its Unique Features

The first game, released in 2003 by Vivendi Universal Games, became a cult classic. Players were immersed in the world of The Simpsons as they unraveled an alien conspiracy in Springfield. One of the game’s most iconic features was its Grand Theft Auto-inspired racing missions, which resonated with fans.

The developers had big plans for the sequel. They aimed to expand on players’ driving capabilities by allowing them to tow objects with their vehicles. Designer Greg Mayer even created a prototype for this new feature before the project was shelved.

Unfortunately, the work on the sequel was minimal before the cancellation. Only a prototype, a Powerpoint presentation, and a few assets had been developed. The plot of the game had yet to be fleshed out, leaving room for various ideas. Chris Mitchell admitted, “It was all over the map.”

Unfulfilled Expectations and a Lost Franchise

At the time, the prospect of the game not reaching fruition seemed unthinkable. The developers had plans for four more potential games in the franchise. They were confident that The Simpsons: Hit & Run would become a long-lasting franchise. However, as Melchior lamented, “It was a no-brainer; it was like, well of course we’re going to be doing this.” Designer Darren Evenson added, “The stars are aligned, we’re treading down this path. And then it was just like a, ‘Huh, I guess we’re not.'”

One of the major factors behind the cancellation was Vivendi’s failure to obtain the license for the video game rights to The Simpsons. In contrast, they were able to secure the rights to Buffy the Vampire Slayer, another popular franchise. Electronic Arts (EA) eventually signed a contract for the video game rights to The Simpsons in 2005, but the publisher hasn’t released a game based on the series since 2007.

Melchior expressed disappointment that there was no momentum loss between the first game and the sequel’s cancellation. It seemed like a natural progression, making the decision to halt production even more puzzling.

No Sequel in Sight

In conclusion, it appears that a sequel to The Simpsons: Hit & Run is officially ruled out as long as EA retains the rights to the franchise. However, fans can still hold out hope for a remastered version of the original game.

Katie Reul is a freelance writer at IGN.