How do isekai novels usually start?

Often, they start with the main character in a normal, everyday situation. For example, in 'Re:Zero', Subaru is just an ordinary guy going about his day in a modern - day setting. Then suddenly, something strange happens like a magical portal or a mysterious force that transports him to another world. In 'Steins; Gate', it begins with Okabe's seemingly normal life as a self - proclaimed mad scientist, until he discovers a way to send messages to the past, which is the start of his journey into a different kind of 'world' in terms of time - travel and altered events.

Often, they start with the main character being transported to another world. This can happen in various ways. For example, they might die in their original world and then be reincarnated in a new one, like in 'Re:Zero'. Or they could be summoned by some magic or a powerful entity, such as in 'The Rising of the Shield Hero'.

Often, advent novels start with the introduction of the main character in their ordinary life. For example, in 'The Hobbit', we first meet Bilbo Baggins in his comfortable hobbit - hole, going about his normal, uneventful daily routine. This gives a contrast to the adventure that is about to unfold.

Often, zombie novels start with a mysterious outbreak or event that turns people into zombies. Maybe it's a virus or a strange experiment gone wrong.

They develop by having the protagonist gain power or status in the new world. This attracts female characters. In 'No Game No Life', Sora and Shiro enter a different world and their intelligence and unique abilities lead to them having a group of female followers. The plot also involves challenges and competitions that further the relationships in the harem.

Typically, these novels begin by introducing the character in a familiar world. In 'The Wizard of Oz', Dorothy is at home on the farm. Then, a natural or supernatural event occurs. It could be a cyclone in Dorothy's case, which whisks her away to the new world. This allows the reader to relate to the character's initial state before being plunged into the unknown and magical realm of the portal fantasy.

Often, they start by introducing a mystery or a strange event. For example, in 'Raise the Titanic!', it might start with some strange discovery related to the Titanic that sets the whole adventure in motion.

Often, they start with the summoning event itself. For example, in 'That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime', the main character is stabbed and then suddenly finds himself in a new world, which is a form of summoning. It's a quick and unexpected start that throws the character into a whole new situation right away.

Typically, 'isekai gamer fanfic' start with the main character being transported to another world. Then, they use their gaming knowledge and skills to survive. For example, they might know how to level up fast or identify rare items. Next, they often face challenges like fighting monsters or dealing with political intrigue in the new world. As the story progresses, they grow in power and influence in that world.

Often, they start with the protagonist being in an ordinary situation in our world, like a normal day at school or work. Then suddenly, something extraordinary happens that transports them to another world. For example, in 'Sword Art Online', the players log into a new VR game and find themselves trapped in the game world which is like another world.