In a cover letter that was sent out with review builds of Fable II, creative director Peter Molyneux reveals that there are plans to restore online co-op play, which was recently cut from the game, within a week of its release.

As you know, co-operative play in "Fable II" is an exciting new feature for us and an experience we think people are really going to enjoy! We are currently putting the final touches on the LIVE co-op experience, so it will not be shipped in time to be included in the retail copies of the game, but we are working hard to deliver an update during the first weekk of its North American release, Oct. 21. This update will be installed the first time you connect to Xbox LIVE.

It's a bit disappointing that the feature is delayed, but it sounds like it might not be delayed by much. Furthermore, having spent several hours with the game, I'm not sure it's such a big deal. This is very clearly built as a single-player RPG and I'm not sure co-op is going to be a major draw.

Although reviews are embargoed until October 20th, I will say one thing based on progressing my character down the path of evil: if you think the typical puppy-kicking choices are bad in an RPG, wait until you discover what you have to do to get into the Temple of Shadows. Which you'll be especially glad you did once you discover what they keep in basement of that place.

Oh, and Molyneux ends his cover letter with the following entreaty. Quote:

ALSO BUY THE CASTLE AND SEE WHAT HAPPENS!!!

Whatever he's shouting about, he's certainly piqued my curiosity.