Well, first of all, alternate reality novels usually play with time and space. They can distort time, like having time loops or different time - flow rates in the alternate world. In terms of space, they can create entirely new continents or reshape existing ones. Authors also use different belief systems to build their worlds. For example, a world where the dominant religion is based on dreams rather than a traditional deity. And they often create new species or modify existing ones. Consider 'A Song of Ice and Fire' by George R. R. Martin. He has created a world with unique races like the Others, and the political and cultural landscape is very different from our real - world counterparts.
They also create unique worlds by the technology associated with the spaceships. The propulsion systems, weapons, and defenses of the spaceships can imply a certain level of technological advancement in the universe. In some novels, the spaceships might be powered by magic - like energy sources, which blurs the line between science and magic and gives a distinct flavor to the world - building. For instance, in 'The Dark Between the Stars' by Kevin J. Anderson, the spaceship technology is closely tied to the overall mystery and danger of the universe.
Fantasy flight novels often create unique worlds through vivid descriptions. For example, they might describe the mechanics of flight, like in 'Dragonflight' where the dragons' flight capabilities are detailed. They also create unique landscapes that are visible from the air, such as floating islands in some novels. Another way is by creating unique cultures around flight. In 'Eragon', the dragon riders have their own set of rules and traditions related to flying.
In airship fantasy novels, the unique worlds are often created by the design of the airships themselves. If the airships are powered by magic, like in 'The Aeronaut's Windlass', then the rules of magic in that world need to be defined. The airships' routes can also define the geography of the world. If there are certain areas that are difficult to reach by airship, they can be made mysterious and full of unknown threats. Also, the crews of the airships can come from different cultures, which helps to build a diverse and rich world. For instance, in 'Airborn', the different nationalities and species on the airship create a unique social dynamic within the story.
They often use vivid imagination. For example, in 'The Dark Tower' series by Stephen King, there are multiple universes that are connected by a mysterious Dark Tower. The settings range from a post - apocalyptic world to a more medieval - like realm. Writers may also change historical events. Like in 'The Man in the High Castle', the different outcome of World War II creates a very distinct setting with Nazi - occupied America and a divided world.
Fantasy beast novels create unique worlds for their beasts in multiple ways. One way is by giving the beasts their own cultures and hierarchies. Just like humans have different societies, some novels give beasts their own kingdoms or packs with their own rules and ways of life. Another way is through the use of unique powers and abilities that the beasts possess. These powers can be related to the environment they live in, like a water - based beast having the ability to control tides in a world where the oceans are full of mystery and power. This all helps to build a world that is distinct and exciting for the beasts to exist in.
They often use vivid descriptions. For instance, in 'Ready Player One', the author describes the different virtual worlds in great detail, from the neon - lit racing tracks to the ancient dungeon - like game levels. Another way is by creating distinct rules for each world. In 'The Magicians', the magical realms have their own laws of magic. This makes the settings unique.
To create a convoluted alternate reality back story for a novel, first, think about the core difference from our world. Let's say it's a world where emotions are physical entities that can be traded. Then, develop the history of how this came to be. Maybe there was a great war between those who wanted to control emotions and those who wanted to free them. As you build the back story, include details about the economy, society, and technology that have been influenced by this fundamental change. You can also introduce different species or races that have evolved differently due to this alternate reality. It's all about layering details and creating a rich tapestry of a world that is both familiar and strange at the same time.
They often draw from mythology and folklore. For example, many use the idea of vampires from European folklore. They also combine different animal features, like a centaur which is part man and part horse. Sometimes they use elements of the supernatural, like ghosts which are often incorporeal spirits.
Authors may create unique worlds in 'Harry x Merlin' fanfiction by merging the cultures of the two series. They could combine the wizarding society of 'Harry Potter' with the medieval - like court of Camelot. This would mean new social hierarchies, traditions, and ways of life for the characters. For example, Harry might have to learn the proper etiquette of Camelot's court while Merlin has to adapt to the more modern - for them - ways of Hogwarts. This cultural mash - up can lead to very engaging and distinct fanfiction worlds.
The main difference lies in the concept of reality. Traditional graphic novels usually follow the rules and logic of our known world. However, alternate reality graphic novels break those rules. They can have different laws of physics, different species, or different power dynamics. In an alternate reality graphic novel, the hero might have powers that are completely unheard of in our world. This allows for more creative and out - of - the - box storytelling compared to traditional graphic novels. They also often explore 'what if' scenarios more deeply, like what if the Nazis won World War II in an alternate reality graphic novel.