NDS has developed an interactive version of Mastermind, the popular television quiz that will debut on 12 November on Discovery Networks Europe (DNE) on Sky digital.

Discovery selected NDS, the leading provider of conditional access systems and interactive applications for digital TV, to provide the technology and to assist in the implementation of the Mastermind application, based on NDS's success with SkySportsActive, Channel 4's Banzai, QVC and other interactive customers.

NDS and Discovery developed the application to allow Sky digital viewers to select from multiple-choice answers in real-time on their remote control, as host Clive Anderson asks the general knowledge questions. Viewers will also be able to vote for the contestant they think looks the brainiest. At the end of the show, viewers will be able to register their scores - those who record the highest scores will be invited to compete in a Viewers' Final, which will take place after the contestants' final.

Discovery launched NDS-powered interactive programming in May 2001 with shows such as Tales From the Black Museum II, Elevision and the Ultimate Guide to Mummies. The interactive shows feature additional in-depth and easy-to-access information, with quirky facts and quizzes for viewers.

Mastermind was last aired in Britain in 1996. The new series - which still features the famous black chair, will transmit each weekday at 4 pm and 7:30 pm, with a weekend omnibus on Saturday and Sunday. The show will remain true to its original format, with four contestants receiving two minutes of questioning on their chosen specialized subject and a further two minutes on general knowledge.