Just like the PlayStation 2 version of Guitar Hero II, released last November, we can't stop playing this mock rock simulation. The handy practice mode helps transform the most inexperienced strummers into guitar legends in a matter of notes, and an engaging offline multiplayer mode lets axe wielders go head-to-head or go with the whole "let's get the band back together" vibe in a coop mode. Toss in a few 360-only features and this game feels like the must-buy game of this season.

The primary goal of the game stays the same -- play along to rock songs by hitting coordinating buttons on the guitar-shaped controller as color-coded icons scroll down the screen. The game caters to both real-life guitar gods and the rhythmically challenged, by allowing the difficulty to be adjusted to easy (a cake walk), medium, hard and expert (good luck surviving this without major skills). A Rock meter keeps track of the player's progress and a power meter fills after successfully playing certain notes. Once this meter fills to the top, lift the Xplorer peripheral in the air to activate Star Power, a score multiplier that lets players rack up points with wild abandon.

Guitar Hero II newbies should jump into the practice mode before trying anything else. Guitar gods in training can pick which song they want to perfect, as well as particular parts of songs. Players stumbling over the guitar solo in the Allman Brothers' "Jessica" can perfect that difficult fretwork by playing it repeatedly, adjusting the difficulty as needed. After practice makes perfect, it'll be much easier to jump into the game's Career Mode and work up to superstardom, starting out with smaller gigs in grimy pubs and into a sold-out stadium tour. Sorry, groupies not included.

The offline competitive mode pits guitarist against guitarist in a full-blown battle of the axes, the best performer takes home the glory. As an added touch, those who would rather play together, can in the cooperative multiplayer mode. One person plays the lead guitar track while the other plays rhythm or bass guitar. Even though a second guitar controller costs upwards of $60, it's worth it just to check out these thought-out multiplayer add-ons.