Power progression is a common theme. The main character often starts weak in the new world but gradually becomes very powerful. For example, in 'That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime', the slime character gains various abilities and becomes a strong leader.
A regular isekai light novel usually involves a character being transported to a different world, often with overpowered abilities right from the start or quickly obtaining them. In an 'isekai canceller light novel', the story might subvert this. For example, the protagonist may not have the typical isekai advantages. They could face more realistic challenges in the new world.
The original isekai light novel has had a huge impact. It has provided a wealth of story concepts. For example, many anime and manga now use the idea of being transported to another world, like we see in countless shows. It has also influenced character archetypes. The overpowered protagonist in a new world is a common trope. And it has expanded the market, making isekai - themed works more popular and thus leading to more production in both anime and manga industries.
One characteristic is the transportation to another world. This could be a medieval - like fantasy world, a post - apocalyptic world, or even a world based on different rules of magic or technology.
Some popular isekai light novels in the top list might include 'Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World'. It has a unique story where the protagonist, Subaru, has the ability to return by death, which makes the plot full of twists and turns.
One of the top isekai light novels is 'Sword Art Online'. It has a captivating story that combines virtual reality gaming with an isekai concept. The protagonist gets trapped in a virtual world and has to fight for survival. Another great one is 'Re:Zero - Starting Life in Another World'. It stands out for its unique take on the isekai genre, with the main character having the ability to return by death. 'Overlord' is also highly regarded. It features a powerful villain-turned-hero in an isekai setting, with complex world - building and interesting characters.
One more to consider is 'Sword Art Online'. Although it has a different take as it starts with being trapped in a virtual reality MMORPG, it still has elements of isekai. The main character has to fight for his survival and freedom in this new digital world that has become a very real and dangerous place for him.
One popular isekai modern weapon light novel is 'GATE: Jieitai Kanochi nite, Kaku Tatakaeri'. It combines modern military elements with an isekai setting. The story follows a Japanese military unit that gets transported to a fantasy world and uses their modern weapons and tactics there. Another great one is 'How a Realist Hero Rebuilt the Kingdom'. The protagonist uses his modern - day knowledge, which includes some understanding of modern weaponry concepts, to help build and defend a kingdom in an isekai world.
The combination of modern weapons and isekai settings is appealing because it creates a contrast. In isekai, usually, it's a world of magic and swords. But when modern weapons are introduced, it brings a new dynamic. For example, seeing a character use a rifle against a dragon or a magical beast is exciting. It also allows for interesting power - level discussions and strategic battles.
The 'isekai smartphone light novel' genre has added a new technological aspect to modern fantasy literature. By introducing a smartphone into a fantasy world, it has changed the way characters interact with their environment. It has inspired other works to incorporate modern technology in different ways into traditional fantasy settings.