BBC considers Top Gear computer game

The BBC is rumoured to be considering a range of computer games based on some of its biggest shows – including Top Gear.

The corporation is reportedly inviting external publishers and games developers to present business models that would transform programmes such as Doctor Who and Top Gear into Nintendo DS, Wii and iPhone games.

Despite closing its multimedia division in 2005, the broadcaster's commercial arm, BBC Worldwide is reportedly keen to extract more value from its best-known shows, and has hired a former games company executive to oversee its digital entertainment branch.

It's far too early for there to be any indication of what form a Top Gear game might take, but the programme's global popularity would suggest any forthcoming title is guaranteed a receptive audience.