A new animated special inspired by the beloved video game series “Backyard Sports” is scheduled to launch next year.
This project signifies the Backyard Sports intellectual property’s debut beyond the gaming realm, developed by “Backyard Sports” rights owner Playground Productions in collaboration with “Bob’s Burgers” and “Rick & Morty” producer, Lighthouse Studios. The lineup of voice talents for the special will be announced in November.
The “Backyard Sports” special is set to premiere with exclusive screenings at Dave & Busters venues in partnership with the chain in early 2026, before a broader release later on.
The announcement of the “Backyard Sports” animated special was made during a lively panel at New York Comic Con on Friday. The discussion featured Playground Productions founder and CEO Lindsay Barnett, Chief Product Officer Chris Waters, and Mega Cat Studios CEO James Deighan, chatting with Variety‘s Senior Business Writer on TV and Video Games, Jennifer Maas.
In 2022, Playground Productions acquired the rights to Backyard Sports and has since revitalized several popular titles from the 1990s and early 2000s for contemporary gamers. This November, the company plans to launch both “Backyard Basketball ’01” and “Backyard Hockey ’02,” marking the last two beloved “Backyard” games awaiting re-release.
To celebrate the dual launch, a “Backyard Sports” retro bundle will be available in November for $36, which will include “Baseball ’97,” “Baseball ’01,” “Football ’99,” “Soccer ’98,” “Basketball ’01,” and “Hockey ’02.” Moreover, “Basketball ’01” and “Hockey ’02” will be offered for free download and retention on Steam. Players who already possess some of the classic titles can opt into Steam’s “Complete the Set” program for an adjusted pricing on the bundle.
In addition, Playground has introduced new “gamification” enhancements for “Backyard Baseball ’97.” In collaboration with tech partner Lucr, these updates feature extended multiplayer contests such as Home Run Challenges and Most Strikeouts, a live global leaderboard, and a chance to win tickets to the 2025 World Series. These options will specifically cater to iOS users.
