Merscom’s Shadetree Games label, in partnership with Destineer’s Bold Games division are publishing Top Gear: Downforce for the Nintendo DS. Developed by Tantalus Interactive, this new racer will change the way we’ve looked at the Top Gear series.

Top Gear: Downforce contains many new features such as a new sky-perspective, 3D models, myriad vehicle physics and 30 cars to rip up on the pavement. Another interesting approach for this sequel is the ability to place hazards on the race track using the DS touchscreen. This’ll fare nicely in both single player and wireless multiplayer races.

“Top Gear Downforce represents the ideal opportunity for Merscom to extend its publishing operations to the Nintendo DS,” said Lloyd Melnick, Chief Customer Officer of Merscom. “Not only is it a fantastic game, but the Top Gear franchise is also well established with both retailers and gamers.”