PC Critic Reviews

It is very rare to see a video game that gets everything right from start to finish, but People of Note definitely falls into this category. It starts off by hooking with flashy musical numbers and never lets go. Whenever Groove is being farmed to buy that latest guitar or triangulation puzzles are being solved, it is always optional and engaging. People of Note is the RPG that players need it to be. Some want a title that constantly makes them think, others want to enjoy a great story, and some want it all. This is one of those gems that will please almost every RPG fan. To add to this, it also has some of the most positive and inclusive writing seen in a video game. Every single element combines into a beautiful harmony, and, just as with music, one can enjoy it either by letting it flow or by analysing its depths.

People of Note is a musical turn-based RPG that has a lot of love for the medium. It is a phenomenal time that will leave you wanting to hear the songs on loop.

I ended my time with People of Note with a huge smile on my face, and if you fall into the specific Venn diagram of “turn-based RPG fan” and “musical fan”, then you probably will as well. The game’s music-infused combat system and world felt incredibly engaging and cohesive, with an elaborate, very fun combat system and an assortment of puzzles that are mostly challenging but fair. If you enjoy turn-based RPGs, People of Note is delightful and nails its particular medley of genres with excellence.

People of Note is a great-looking and sounding rhythm RPG. If you are a fan of making or playing music, there are so many references here to make you smile.

People of Note is a vibrant turn-based RPG that blends classic JRPG structure with inventive rhythm-based combat and a standout musical identity, delivering a heartfelt story about ambition and friendship in a richly stylized world. Its Songstone customization system and flexible difficulty options modernize familiar mechanics, while its soundtrack and vocal performances elevate nearly every moment. Although its late-game pacing and limited animated storytelling hold it back from perfection, the experience remains consistently engaging, creative, and full of personality.

People of Note is a great RPG in a charismatic world of music that plays with real-life aspects of genres and a huge ton of puns. With a deeply strategic system, the game lets players use a variety of abilities to come out on top. It’s remarkable in pretty much every aspect it brings to the table and a game worth exploring.

No matter which of People of Note‘s three pillars interests you the most, they’re all extremely well-crafted. You can see Final Fantasy‘s heavy influence in the way People of Note‘s RPG core looks and operates. Cadence, Fret, and the rest of her band are not only interesting in their backgrounds, but unique in the ways that they sound and play. And if the idea of puzzles on top of all this dissuade you, they shouldn’t — each of these pillars can be dialled up or down to present a challenge that you can set for yourself. Priced at $24.99 USD, this is an easy commendation for those who love old school RPGs, music, or puzzles. Give it a go for yourself.

People of Note is a game that’s positively bursting with love for classic RPGs, music theory and culture, and the people who like both. It’s got an earnest, interesting story with diverse, likable characters, and smartly-designed, cleverly-implemented combat and stat-building systems. Compared to some similar RPGs, it’s a little on the leaner side, and the relatively minor presence of rhythm mechanics is disappointing. Still, overall, it’s a rock-solid, highly-enjoyable experience, and I’d wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who likes good, ol’ fashioned turn-based combat and musical references. Also, if and when they release an official soundtrack, I will play it on loop until my speakers wear out. Especially the Irish battle music, that track is straight fire.

Despite a few technical shortcomings, People of Note is a truly inventive game with a real sense of charm and a BANGING soundtrack.

People of Note is a distinctive RPG that smartly blends music with gameplay, featuring fresh combat and a clear identity. Not every note lands but the many options let you tailor the experience to your liking. It won't be a hit for everyone, but it delivers something genuinely unique.