Random Video Game Review - The Simpsons: Hit & Run

 

Originally I was going to review an MMO game, but felt that would be too much hard work and no fun to write up. Yeah, I tend to flag when I review games that are considered big. So instead, I'm reviewing this little gem. Most American adult animated sitcoms, have had some video games be made, and The Simpsons is no exception. While I could spend awhile talking about a few of them (and I think I have done on this blog a few times) in a series review, I'm just gonna make it simple and talk about this one. It's The Simpsons' answer to Grand Theft Auto and overall, it's a pretty fun game and one that I hope one day will be released on Galaxy of Games, Steam, Epic Games Store and other digital shopfronts. I know a big HD remake was made, but due to it being unofficial, it's likely it won't ever get a wide release. So let's see what awaits us in this game:

As usual, the residents of Springfield go about their everyday lives. That is until strange things appear like robotic wasps, an unusual brand of Buzz Cola becomes a thing and black vans start driving around the town. Initially, Homer (reprised by Dan Castellaneta) sets out to investigate what's going on alone, but the rest of the family and Apu (reprised by Hank Azaria, the game was released long before the character became part of the background) soon follow course and together, uncover the truth. The game has seven sandbox themed levels, with each one being set in a different part of Springfield and then repeats after level 3. Each one has missions and sub-plots as well as lots of coins, hidden vehicles, races and loads more to do. While you can traverse each level on foot, the game encourages using vehicles to do things. You can drive like you would in GTA and if enough damage is done, the police will come after you and give you a fine if caught. You can also hitch-hike cars too, and every mission is either a race or a case of finding certain collectibles or just simply damaging a car. Usually before the timer runs out. Among the collectibles are these Itchy and Scratchy cards which if you collect all 7 in a level, they will contribute to the hidden minigame that you can play later on.

I think overall, the game is still a pretty solid and fun time. It will get repetitive, but most games, at the time of release, were like that anyway. Plus, it's not often that you get a game that almost perfectly replicates another game. I say almost because there is only so far that the Simpsons are willing to go before too long. 9/10