Activision Reportedly Developing The Simpsons Hit & Run Remake

Activision is reportedly planning a strategic return to its legacy licensed library, including a highly anticipated remake of The Simpsons: Hit & Run. According to VGC editor Jordan Middler, Microsoft is leveraging Activision’s massive catalog to revive classic titles and licensed IPs to expand the Xbox ecosystem and Game Pass value.

Is The Simpsons: Hit & Run actually getting a remake?

Yes, according to reporting from Jordan Middler, an editor at VGC. Middler claims that Activision’s current roadmap involves creating new versions of their most successful licensed games, with the “one everyone is waiting for”—widely understood to be Hit & Run—already in the works.

This isn’t just a rumor about a simple port. The focus appears to be on full remakes or significant remasters. This strategy allows Microsoft to modernize gameplay mechanics while keeping the nostalgic charm that made the original a cult classic.

For years, fans have pushed for this title to return. The original’s chaotic energy and satirical take on Springfield fit perfectly into the modern “open-world” trend, making it a low-risk, high-reward project for Activision.

Which other licensed Activision games could return?

While The Simpsons is the headline, the potential list of revivals is deep. Activision owns the rights to several legendary licenses that have been dormant for over a decade. Based on the trend of recovering “licensed titles,” several franchises are likely candidates.

The Transformers series is a prime example. Titles like War for Cybertron and Fall of Cybertron are still praised for their storytelling and scale. Bringing these to current-gen consoles would tap into a massive, underserved fanbase.

Then there’s the Spider-Man library. Before Insomniac’s current hits, Activision handled titles like Shattered Dimensions and Web of Shadows. While Sony now holds the primary console partnership for Spider-Man, Activision’s ownership of these specific legacy titles creates an interesting legal and commercial opportunity for remasters.

Why is Microsoft focusing on remakes and licensed IP now?

The move is a calculated play for “Information Gain” in a crowded market. By reviving licensed hits, Microsoft doesn’t have to spend years building a new IP from scratch. They are instead leveraging existing brand loyalty.

We’ve seen this work recently with other publishers. Capcom’s Resident Evil remakes and EA’s Dead Space reboot proved that updating a classic with modern lighting and controls can outperform new releases. Microsoft is simply applying this proven blueprint to the Activision library.

Furthermore, these titles are perfect “filler” content for Xbox Game Pass. A Hit & Run remake provides immediate value to subscribers and attracts lapsed gamers who haven’t touched a console since the early 2000s.

Comparing the Strategy: New IP vs. Legacy Remakes

What happens next for the Activision catalog?

Beyond licensed games, the conversation is shifting toward the “emblematic” Call of Duty titles. There are persistent reports that the original Black Ops games could arrive on Game Pass, potentially accompanied by remasters to bring them up to modern visual standards.

We might also see the return of “forgotten” gems like Singularity. These titles often slip through the cracks of corporate mergers, but under Microsoft’s stewardship, the goal seems to be maximizing the utility of every single asset they own.

Expect these announcements to trickle out during major events like Gamescom or The Game Awards. Microsoft rarely dumps all its news at once; they prefer a steady stream of “hype cycles” to keep the community engaged.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the Simpsons: Hit & Run remake be on PC?
While not officially confirmed, Microsoft’s current strategy is “play everywhere.” It’s highly likely it will launch on Xbox Series X|S and PC via the Microsoft Store and Steam.

Is this a confirmed announcement from Microsoft?
No. This information comes from Jordan Middler of VGC, a reputable industry source, but Microsoft and Activision have not yet issued an official press release.

Will these games be free on Game Pass?
Most likely. Microsoft uses Game Pass as the primary vehicle for its Activision acquisitions, making it the most probable home for these remakes.