I also think that being in the same party in co-op mode is good but, I think it will be better if the co-op playing could be in apart parties. 2 people will be playing in other computers, and becuase of that they can play the same game in different start points with respect to their choices of their family and appearance. And also I suggest you to make time passing always(i.e. being in a war or in a town). This feature will make you able to supply my opinion that I told at start. Thus, the 2 player of this co-op mode will be playing in the same time schedule without connecting with each other. They will be connecting with each other like two lords in the game. They can be opponent, ally etc. If this could be done, playing with your best friend will be very fun. I wish you a good day.