A History of “The Simpsons” in Video Games
The Simpsons: Virtual Springfield
Developer: Digital Evolution
Publisher: Fox Interactive
Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Mac OS
Release Date: 1997
1997 saw the release of the first 3D animated Simpsons game. The first-person adventure, Virtual Springfield allows the player to explore the town including locations like the Kwik-E-Mart, Springfield Elementary, and the Simpson’s house. The goal is to collect a full set of player cards while interacting with the characters of Springfield and unlocking new areas. There is also a collection of mini-games including the in-show game Slugfest that appeared on the episode “Moaning Lisa”. Development of the game also helped to realize the construction of a real-life replica of the Simpsons house which was given away in a contest in 1997. The game received average reception being toted as detailed and referential enough for fans of the show, but not worth it for a casual fan.
