In an exclusive conversation with PEOPLE, Matt Selman, the showrunner of The Simpsons, shared his thoughts on the enduring popularity of the 2003 video game, The Simpsons: Hit & Run. As the show celebrates its landmark 800th episode, Selman has offered a glimmer of hope to the game’s dedicated fanbase with the phrase, “never say never,” suggesting the possibility of a revival might still exist.
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Reflecting on his experience, Selman recalled his initial involvement with Hit & Run, saying, “I had no idea it would become a cult game, a cult success.” He noted that, amidst the multitude of franchise video games, Hit & Run stands out for its unique appeal. The game was developed during a period when the gaming industry was witnessing a shift, particularly influenced by the release of Grand Theft Auto III. “We thought, ‘This has to be The Simpsons version of that,’” he explained, revealing the creative tension involved in its development.
One of the key battles during the game’s production revolved around players being able to enter and exit vehicles. The developers initially resisted this idea, but Selman and his colleagues were insistent on its inclusion. “We luckily won that battle because it is fun to get in and out of the cars,” he said, highlighting the importance of such gameplay mechanics in enhancing player experience.
When discussing a potential revamp, Selman maintained that nothing is confirmed. “Nothing is set in stone,” he stated while emphasising the eagerness of fans. “If we know people want it, never say never.” He had previously expressed his desire for a remastered version of Hit & Run, acknowledging the complex corporate structures in play that make such projects difficult to realise.
Interestingly, Selman revealed that while he holds a fondness for Hit & Run, his personal favourite Simpsons video game is The Simpsons Game, released in 2007. He praised it as “the funniest and most innovative love letter to video games,” citing its movie-level storytelling, a testament to the blend of humour and narrative that characterises The Simpsons franchise.
Fans of The Simpsons have plenty of content to enjoy in the meantime, as the show’s 800th episode recently premiered on Fox. This milestone episode included appearances from several celebrities, such as Quinta Brunson and Kevin Bacon, alongside the cast of HBO’s The Pitt. Notable guest appearances were also made by Noah Wyle and Katherine LaNasa, adding to the episode’s star-studded appeal.
The Simpsons airs on Sunday evenings at 8 p.m. ET on Fox. As the show continues to evolve, its influence on both television and gaming remains undeniable. The ongoing discussions around a potential revamp of The Simpsons: Hit & Run reflect not just nostalgia but also the vibrant community that remains passionate about the series and its numerous adaptations.
In an ever-changing entertainment landscape, Selman’s words provide a glimmer of hope for fans of the original game. While the future of any revival remains uncertain, the enthusiasm from both creators and fans signals that the legacy of The Simpsons: Hit & Run is far from over. As such, the gaming community eagerly awaits any developments in what could be a refreshing return to Springfield and its beloved characters.