Xbox 360 owners who fancy themselves the next Hendrix or Clapton can live out their rock & roll fantasies with this enhanced version of 2006's Guitar Hero II. The strumming sensation that began on PlayStation 2 features high-definition visuals, downloadable songs, added play modes, extra characters, and an assortment of imaginative venues in which to rock out. As a series of color-coded notes scroll down the screen, players attempt to match them using the five fret buttons and working strum bar on RedOctane's guitar controller, modeled after the Gibson Explorer. As in the PS2 version, users can select which guitar part they want to play from three choices: rhythm, lead, or bass.
 
Cooperative jams are available in the multiplayer mode, allowing would-be guitar gods to work together on songs while each playing a separate track. Over 55 songs are included in this version, spanning such genres as classic rock, heavy metal, hair metal, modern rock, and more. Among the featured tunes are "Sweet Child O' Mine," "Jessica," "Heart Shaped Box," "Message in a Bottle," "You Really Got Me," "Them Bones," "Free Bird," "Madhouse," and "YYZ," with additional tracks available for purchase on Xbox Live. The initial release of Guitar Hero II is part of a bundle that includes a guitar controller, stickers, and a shoulder strap. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide