"People of Note" is an innovative turn-based role-playing game that invites players into a vibrant universe where musical tastes are paramount. The narrative centers on Cadence, an aspiring pop star, whose mission is to fuse diverse musical genres and challenge the entrenched snobbery prevalent among the city's inhabitants. This introductory segment delves into the game's core appeal, highlighting its unique blend of humor, particularly through its extensive use of puns, and the intriguing premise of overcoming musical divisions through the power of diverse sounds.
The demo of "People of Note" immediately immerses players in the game's second chapter, set in the rock-infused city of Durandis. Cadence's immediate objective is to enlist a fellow musician for her nascent band. However, this journey is punctuated by frequent humorous interludes, thanks to the game's relentless barrage of wordplay. The experience is characterized by its lighthearted tone and the constant presence of cleverly crafted puns that are designed to entertain and amuse players throughout their musical adventure.
A standout feature that captivates players in the demo is the "accorgion," a delightful fusion of a corgi and an accordion. This charming creature is not only visually appealing but also interactive, allowing players to pet it, a small detail that adds to the game's endearing quality. Beyond the obvious musical themes, the game introduces hidden "Weird Owls," characters distinguished by their mustaches and elaborate hairstyles. These peculiar owls transform turn-based battles into engaging quizzes, adding an unexpected layer of gameplay for those who appreciate a good pun and a break from conventional combat scenarios.
The city itself is a microcosm of musical genres, where factions like metal, punk, and grunge fans harbor animosity towards each other, with country music enthusiasts often being the primary target of their disdain. Cadence, with her pop sensibilities, also faces skepticism from these established groups. Amidst this musical discord, Cadence forges an alliance with Fret, an seasoned rocker. Their partnership signifies a critical turning point, as they begin to synthesize their distinct sounds, symbolizing the game's central theme of unity through musical diversity.
Combat in "People of Note" maintains a traditional turn-based RPG structure, albeit with a charming musical overlay. Actions are framed in musical terminology, such as battle 'stanzas,' and attacks often involve characters wielding musical instruments. Special abilities, like weaponized dances and riffs, introduce a thematic flair without fundamentally altering the combat mechanics. While these musical elements primarily serve an aesthetic purpose, the game does incorporate a rhythmic timing mechanic for bonus damage, offering a subtle nod to musicality in its gameplay.
However, the game's momentum occasionally falters with the inclusion of puzzles that, while thematically consistent, can feel repetitive and uninspired. These challenges, often revolving around redirecting energy beams with interactive dishes, tend to disrupt the flow of the narrative. Recognizing this potential drawback, the developers have thoughtfully provided players with the option to bypass these puzzles, as well as the turn-based battles themselves. This flexibility allows players to customize their experience, enabling those who prefer a more narrative-driven adventure to focus on the game's story and its abundant humor, particularly its clever puns.
