Other modes include Career Co-op, where you complete all the songs with a friend. There's also a training mode for you to hone your skills, as well as Quick Play, which lets you select any of the previously unlocked songs.

Online play, however, enhances the package, allowing you to leave the confines of your living room and challenge the world. Post high scores to online leader boards for bragging rights or compete against other players in real time, play songs co-operatively or test their skills in the Battle mode. In addition, the promise of downloadable content, such as new song packs, should keep this game inside your system for a while. At the time of review, we couldn't test the online portion extensively, but we played the online at a recent Activision event, and it ran smoothly. We'll report back later this week if that's still not the case.

As for the guitar, Red Octane constructed a sturdy controller with heavier plastic and built-in wireless. The neck detaches from the base for easier transport, and you can also swap faceplates, which opens the door for almost limitless customization. It's a big improvement over the previous controllers, even though it still looks like a toy when compared to Rock Bands more realistic guitar controller. The Wii version is by far the most intriguing, since you insert the Wii remote into the device and utilize its motion sensing abilities to activate star power by physically tilting the device. Whenever you miss a note, you'll hear it through the Wii remote's speaker, which makes it seem like you actually screwed up on the guitar, instead of hearing the noise through the TV.

The soundtrack consists of 71 tracks in all -- 46 on the main set list and 25 bonus songs. This is probably one of the most diverse soundtracks to date; the more guitar-driven songs of the '70s have been updated with tracks from Sonic Youth, Sum 41 and Metallica. While playing through the songs -- one question stayed at the forefront of our minds – what's up with the white boy soundtrack? We would have liked to see more from legends like Jimi Hendrix and Prince in the mix.

Despite these missteps, Guitar Hero III still warrants your hard-earned cash. It is, after all, a Guitar Hero game, and that alone makes it worth playing. The game works with the Guitar Hero II controller, but we recommend spending the $100 (or $90 for the Wii version) to buy both the game and the new guitar. The new Les Paul can deliver that visceral rock 'n' roll experience better than the other GH controllers. Just make sure you don't break any bones while performing knee-sliding solos on the living room floor.