Closet headbangers have long dreamed of rocking the stage alongside Guns 'N Roses or Audioslave. Guitar Hero made that dream a reality, becoming a chord-shredding hit last year. Now, Guitar Hero II lets you and a friend play rock god side-by-side, using Stratocaster-shaped plastic controllers. Those who lack the accessory -- or who slam it Kurt Cobain-style into the ground -- can purchase a package which bundles one with the game for $79.99. Despite highly hand-eye coordination-focused play, it's a surprisingly refreshing way to live out your every teenage fantasy.

Jam along to a slew of rock hits (everything from Kiss' "Strutter" to Nirvana's "Heart-Shaped Box" and Kansas' "Carry on Wayward Son"), using on-screen prompts to guide you. If you can take your eyes off the music, you'll see attractively animated musicians perform at virtual venues. Precise finger placement and the length of each key press determine how well you please a cadre of screaming fans, with greater accuracy resulting in better performance ratings. If you suck, they boo, just like in Spinal Tap. Offering 55-plus alternative rock, classic rock, modern rock, hair metal and heavy metal smashes, the range of highlighted tunes proves both plentiful and inspired.

A cooperative multiplayer mode (pick up a dual-guitar bundle at www.redoctane.com for $119.98) is the sequel's main attraction, letting you and a pal strum along in sequence, playing rhythm, bass or lead. The action becomes all the more exciting as you strike silly poses, twirl your controller and snarl menacingly for friends' or loved ones' appreciation. Shallow? Perhaps. But as pure, dumb fun goes, there's no better way to waste an afternoon, or celebrate the recording industry's brazen and rebellious spirit. Unfortunately, groupies and screaming fans are still sold separately.