One way it stands out is through different cultural influences in the wizarding world. In the original, it was mainly based on British culture. But in this fanfiction, there could be elements from other cultures like Asian or African magic traditions blended in. The relationships between characters might also be more complex. For example, there could be more love triangles or different alliances. The fanfiction might also explore different forms of magic that were only hinted at in the original, like time - traveling magic being used more extensively or in a different way.
In the original Harry Potter series, Reparo is mainly used for simple object repairs like glasses. But in fanfic, it can be used more creatively. For example, to repair a whole building that has been magically destroyed. Fanfic authors might also use it on more complex magical items that we didn't see in the original books.
In the original series, death is often a consequence of the battle between good and evil. But in 'death harry fanfic', it can be more of an active force. For example, death could be personified and interact directly with Harry. It might offer him deals or tests that are not in the original plot.
Fanfiction often explores different perspectives. In the original 'Harry Potter' series, we mainly follow Harry's point of view. But in 'Harry Potter and the Fanfiction', we can get inside the heads of other characters like Draco Malfoy or Severus Snape. Also, fanfiction can change the plot. For example, some fanfictions might have Voldemort winning in the end. Another difference is that fanfiction can explore relationships in more depth, such as Hermione and Ron's relationship from a different angle.
The most obvious difference is Harry's identity. In the original, he is a Potter, which shapes his story in many ways. In this fanfiction, not being a Potter means different relationships and a different standing in the wizarding world.
Some characters might develop new skills. For instance, Hermione could learn a type of magic from another universe that makes her even more powerful. This would change her role in the story and how others interact with her.
Often, fanfic authors give Cho a more complex backstory. Maybe she has family secrets related to the wizarding world's history. This can lead to her making different choices. For instance, she could be more involved in the Order of Phoenix's activities earlier on, rather than just being on the sidelines as in the original. This new backstory can also affect her relationships with other characters, like her friendship with Hermione or her rivalry with Ginny in a more nuanced way.
In some fanfictions, Molly Weasley might be portrayed as more of a mentor figure to characters other than her own children. For example, she could be shown guiding Harry through some complex magic that even Dumbledore hadn't thought of. This is different from the original series where her focus was mainly on her family and the Order's activities within that family - centric context.
Doing things differently in Harry Potter fanfiction can enhance the reading experience in multiple ways. First, it allows for exploration of different character dynamics. For instance, if Sirius Black had survived and became a teacher at Hogwarts, his interactions with the students, especially Harry and his friends, would be very interesting. It also gives a chance to explore different plot twists. Maybe in a fanfic, the Triwizard Tournament has a different set of tasks that are more dangerous and complex. This keeps the readers on their toes and makes them eager to see how the characters will overcome these new challenges. Moreover, it can provide new insights into the wizarding world. For example, if the Ministry of Magic was completely reformed in a different way in a fanfic, we can see how that affects the lives of witches and wizards.
In the original series, Hedwig is mainly a faithful owl companion. But in fanfiction, she can be much more. She could be a magical entity with her own backstory and motives. For instance, some fanfictions might explore her origin in more detail, like she was bred from a special line of owls with unique abilities.
The 'snarry' fan fiction often delves deeper into their emotional connection. In the books, we see Snape's actions mainly from Harry's perspective which is often clouded by misunderstanding. Fan fictions, on the other hand, can explore Snape's real feelings and motives more fully. They can also create scenarios where Harry gets to know Snape on a more personal level, outside of the classroom and the war - time tensions. For instance, in some fics, they might have a chance encounter in a non - Hogwarts setting which leads to a whole new understanding between them.