The Simpsons: Hit & Run

Game Overview

In The Simpsons: Hit & Run, strange occurrences plague Springfield: robotic wasp cameras monitor citizens, mysterious black vans stake out neighborhoods, and a new "Buzz Cola" drink drives residents into erratic behavior. Homer, Bart, Lisa, Marge, and Apu set out across seven story chapters to uncover the truth, discovering an alien plot concocted by Kang and Kodos. Gameplay blends high-speed mission driving with third-person platforming and exploration. Players navigate iconic Springfield landmarks—from 742 Evergreen Terrace and Springfield Nuclear Power Plant to Kamp Krusty and the Squidport—completing timed delivery runs, destruction challenges, vehicle chases, and street races. The game features an expansive roster of unlockable vehicles, classic outfits, hidden collector cards, and authentic voice acting from the show's complete original cast, making it an absolute high mark for GameCube action titles.

Quick Specifications

• Platform: Nintendo GameCube

• Developer: Radical Entertainment

• Publisher: Vivendi Universal Games

• Release Date: September 16, 2003 (North America)

• Genre: Action-Adventure / Open World / Driving

• Players: 1–4 Players (Local Multiplayer Bonus Track Mode)

• ESRB Rating: T (Teen)

Key Features

• Five Playable Characters: Control Homer, Bart, Lisa, Marge, and Apu across seven narrative levels set in distinct sections of Springfield.

• Open-World Driving and Platforming: Explore detailed sandbox environments on foot or behind the wheel of iconic vehicles like the Pink Sedan, Canyonero, and Ferrini RED.

• Hit & Run System: Drive recklessly or smash street light fixtures to fill the "Hit & Run" meter, triggering aggressive police pursuits led by Chief Wiggum.

• Authentic Show Production: Written by original Simpsons TV series writers and voiced by the entire official voice cast, featuring authentic dialogue and humor.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Which characters are playable across the campaign?

The single-player campaign features five playable characters across seven levels: Homer (Levels 1 and 7), Bart (Levels 2 and 6), Lisa (Level 3), Marge (Level 4), and Apu (Level 5).

How does the "Hit & Run" mechanic work?

If you hit pedestrians, destroy property, or crash into traffic cars, your Hit & Run meter fills. Once full, local police cars immediately give chase and attempt to ram your vehicle until you pay a 50-coin fine or escape the pursuit.

How do you unlock the 3D Bonus Track minigame?

Collecting all 49 Itchy & Scratchy Collector Cards (7 hidden cards in each of the 7 levels) unlocks a secret 3D arcade racing minigame playable with up to 4 players in local split-screen mode.

Are all the original TV show voice actors in the game?

Yes! The game features the entire principal voice cast of the animated series, including Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith, Hank Azaria, and Harry Shearer.