i thought this was a common isekai story novel

Common isekai stories typically follow a set formula. There's the sudden transfer to a different world, often accompanied by a truck-kun moment (where the character is hit by a truck and wakes up in another world). Then, there's the discovery of new powers or skills, making friends or allies, and usually a grand quest to save the new world or achieve something great.

Well, a common isekai novel usually has a few typical elements. For example, the protagonist is often transported from our normal world to a fantasy world, either by being reincarnated or some kind of magical accident. There's often a system in place that gives the protagonist special abilities or quests to complete. Also, there's usually a power - up journey where the main character gets stronger over time.

A big trope is the 'fish out of water' situation. The character from the real world has to adapt to the strange rules and customs of the isekai world. Also, there's the 'chosen one' trope. The protagonist is somehow destined to save the isekai world or fulfill a great prophecy. And let's not forget the 'gaining levels' or 'power progression' trope, where the character gets stronger as they complete tasks or defeat enemies.

One unique aspect could be the way the protagonist is transported. Instead of the usual death - and - reincarnation or magic portal, it could be something really different like being pulled into a painting or a song. Another thing could be the world - building. If it has a really strange and unique world, not just the typical fantasy stuff, like a world made of living crystals or where emotions are physical entities.

One common trope is the overpowered protagonist. In many isekai game stories, the main character often has some special abilities or knowledge from their original world that gives them an edge in the new isekai world. Another is the harem aspect, where the protagonist is surrounded by multiple characters of the opposite sex who are attracted to them. Also, the concept of leveling up and getting stronger is very prevalent, as the character has to adapt to the new and often dangerous environment of the isekai world.

One common theme is the exploration of identity. In a new isekai world, the gay characters often have to figure out who they are and how their sexual orientation fits into this new society. For example, they might face different social norms compared to their original world.

One common theme is the concept of starting anew in a different world. The protagonist often gets a second chance at life or a new beginning.

A common theme is self - discovery. When a character thinks they are the main character, they often go through a process of learning more about themselves. For example, they might realize their flaws or hidden strengths. Another theme is disillusionment. As the story unfolds, they may find out that they are not as important in the grand scheme of things as they thought, like in 'The Great Gatsby'. Here, Gatsby believes he can rewrite his own story and be the main character in Daisy's life, but ultimately faces disillusionment.

Another theme is power progression. They usually start from a relatively weak state and gradually become more powerful through various adventures and challenges. This can involve leveling up, obtaining new skills or items, and forming alliances. For instance, in 'That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime', the slime protagonist keeps evolving and getting stronger.

Survival is also a major theme. Since they are in a strange isekai world, they need to use their assassin - like skills to survive. In 'Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World', Subaru has to constantly figure out ways to stay alive in the face of many threats.