The iconic ‘Backyard Sports’ video game franchise is making a comeback, announced Playground Productions. Planned for release in the coming months, the new games aim to retain the nostalgic charm of the original late ’90s and early 2000s titles while incorporating modern features.

Key Points:
– Original ‘Backyard Baseball’ launched in 1997, featuring beloved characters like Pablo Sanchez and Stephanie Morgan.
– Franchise expanded to include sports such as soccer, basketball, football, and hockey, collaborating with MLB, MLS, and NBA for athlete likenesses.
– Playground Productions is exploring potential partnerships with professional leagues for the revival.
– Jason Kelce, although not involved, expressed interest in reviving the franchise last year, highlighting its nostalgic value.
– Plans extend beyond games, with aspirations for related merchandise, films, and television content.

Chris Waters of Playground Productions emphasized the importance of marrying the original feel of the games with contemporary expectations, aiming to inspire a new generation of fans. Lindsay Barnett, the CEO, noted the franchise’s impact on childhood memories, eager to deliver meaningful, entertaining content.