He could be a mentor. In many counterworld novels, an old man often has great wisdom and experience, guiding the protagonist through the strange and dangerous counterworld.
Maybe he is a keeper of secrets. The old man might hold crucial knowledge about the counterworld, like its hidden rules, powerful artifacts, or the way to get in and out of certain mysterious places. For example, in some novels, the old man only reveals these secrets to the worthy ones who can prove themselves.
He could also be a former adventurer who has failed in his quests in the counterworld long ago. Now, he serves as a warning to the new generation. His haggard appearance and the stories of his past misadventures can act as cautionary tales for the protagonist not to make the same mistakes he did.
As a mysterious figure. His past is usually clouded in mystery, and his actions and motives are not always clear at first. For instance, he might seem to be helping the protagonist at one moment and then acting in a way that seems to oppose them the next, all part of a grander plan that only unfolds later in the story.
One possible theme could be redemption. Maybe the old man has made mistakes in his past life and the counterworld gives him a chance to make things right.
One main theme could be adaptation. The old man has to adapt to the new counterworld he finds himself in. Another theme might be self - discovery as he learns about his new abilities and place in this strange world.
I'm not very familiar with a specific 'old man in counterworld light novel'. You could try searching on some popular light novel platforms like J-Novel Club or Novel Updates. Maybe you'll find it there.
An old man could be a gatekeeper. He guards a mysterious portal or a secret passage. Only those who can solve his riddles or complete his tasks are allowed to pass. He might have been placed there by an ancient order to protect something important.
Sure. 'Sword Art Online' has some parallels. It's set in a virtual world which can be considered a kind of counterworld in a sense. The main character has to face various challenges and grow in that world, just like the old man in the 'an old man in counterworld light novel'. Also, 'Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash' might be relevant. It shows how characters deal with a new and often harsh world, which is something that the old man in your mentioned novel also experiences.
The old man, like Santa Claus, is the bringer of gifts. He spreads joy among children.
Well, without having read 'an ossan in counterworld light novel', we can only make assumptions. The 'ossan' might be an ordinary person who gets transported to a counterworld. In this new world, he could be the key to solving some great mystery or conflict. It might explore themes like the clash between his old - world values and the new rules of the counterworld. There could also be elements of friendship or rivalry as he meets other characters in this strange place.
His role could be that of a family provider. He might be responsible for getting the family Christmas presents and making sure there's a nice dinner on Christmas day.
He could be a mentor. For instance, in some stories, the old man has a wealth of knowledge and experience and guides the younger characters.