[Update]: A year after launch, Ys IX: Monstrum Nox has just unleashed a surprise PC performance patch.

In an update that came pretty much out of nowhere, the PC version of Ys IX: Monstrum Nox has just received local co-op, which also includes online multiplayer through Steam's Remote Play Together feature! Under the co-op system both players will have access to all of the movement and combat abilities, will be able to discover landmarks and open chests, as well as initiate dialogue and start events. The only thing reserved for player one is the ability to interact with the menus, which includes the world map.

What this looks like in actual gameplay, however, that you can find out through the recently posted preview. Have a peek, it's pretty exciting stuff:

Sadly, given the experimental nature of the new co-op mode, there are some hoops you'll need to jump through in order to play with your friend. First and foremost, you'll need two controllers. Secondly, while there is a shared camera system, it's not perfect and you'll need a bit of a different approach to camera control than in singleplayer.

Finally, there are some actions that can result in a softlock - things like sealing the first player behind an impassable door by progressing the story too quickly as player two. So if you do decide to play Monstrum Nox in co-op, do make sure to keep an eye for such situations, and always have an extra save file lying around in order to easily rollback should anything bad happen.

You can check out all of the details, as well as read more about the update itself, over at Steam. Have fun with the new co-op mode!