Hey guys, let’s talk about something that’s been on my mind lately: Isekai. You know, the whole being transported to another world thing. I love reading about it, but those first few chapters where the MC is in denial? Ugh, it drives me nuts.
“I’m dreaming!” “This must be a coma!” “VR, right?” It’s like, dude, you’re fighting a giant spider with a rusty spoon – wake up!
Now, I’ve had some crazy dreams, but I’ve never dreamt up a world like that. So, if you were suddenly Isekai‘d, how would you know for sure you weren’t just having a super weird hallucination?
Here’s the Isekai Checklist I’ve put together, for all you aspiring heroes and heroines out there:
The Denial Stage: Dream vs. Reality
First things first, let’s tackle the big two: dream and coma. These are the easy ones to rule out.
- Dream: You know you’re dreaming if you can’t control your surroundings. Try to move something. Jump. Fly. If you can’t do it, or it instantly reverts back, it’s probably a dream. And if you’re not sure, pinch yourself. It’ll hurt in reality, but it might just be a dream if it doesn’t.
- Coma: Similar to dreaming, you won’t be able to make any real progress in a coma. You can’t influence the world around you. Can’t eat, talk, or move. So if you’re feeling hungry, thirsty, or just plain bored, you’re probably not in a coma.
The Virtual World: Glitches & Limitations
Next up, Virtual Reality – the trickiest one to spot. This is where the MCs usually get stuck.
- Progress: This is the big one. Can you move freely and make changes in the environment? If you can walk through a building, climb a tree, or even just pick up a rock, that’s a good sign.
- Movement Limitations: VR has those annoying limitations, right? Can you jump higher than you usually can? Can you climb walls like Spider-Man? If your physical abilities are suddenly boosted, it might be VR.
- Glitches: Glitches are the telltale sign of VR. Ever notice those jarring textures, sudden changes in lighting, or NPCs teleporting across the room? Yep, VR.
The Real Deal: Isekai’d!
Alright, so you’ve ruled out the dream, the coma, and VR. You’re starting to feel like this might be real, but how can you be absolutely sure?
- Can you breathe? This might seem obvious, but if you can breathe and it’s not a choking hazard, you’re probably in a new world.
- Feeling Hungry? This is the big one. Our bodies are finely tuned for the chemicals in our food. If you’re on another planet, you’re going to experience some serious digestion issues. Think bloating, gas, and the urge to run to the nearest bathroom.
- Water: Water might be a bit more universal, but it’s worth checking out. Try drinking some. If it tastes strange or makes you sick, you’re probably not on Earth.
- Magic? If you find yourself suddenly casting spells, healing people with your fingertips, or summoning magical beasts, you’re definitely in a new world. Just be careful not to accidentally summon something you can’t handle.
The Convergence Theory: We’re All Just Fancy Apes
Now, here’s a bit of a side note for the science-minded out there. Some people believe in a convergence theory of life – the idea that all life, no matter where it evolves, eventually converges on similar forms.
So, maybe that giant spider you just battled is just a really advanced insect. And that glowing plant that’s giving off magic energy? Maybe it’s just an especially powerful type of algae.
The Seeded Theory: Aliens Are Real and They Like to Mess with Us
There’s another theory, the seeded theory. This one suggests that life on Earth came from other planets. If that’s true, maybe the world you’ve been transported to is just another one of those alien-seeded planets.
But hey, don’t worry about it too much. Focus on getting used to your new surroundings and maybe try not to eat too much of that strange looking fruit. Who knows, you might even find yourself enjoying the adventure!
Tips for a Successful Isekai Life
- Don’t panic. Being transported to another world is a pretty big deal, but try to stay calm. You’ve got this.
- Learn the language. Communication is key. If you can’t speak the language, you’re going to have a hard time making friends or getting help.
- Make friends. You’re not alone. There are other people out there who have been transported to this world. Find them and make some connections.
- Be careful. It’s a dangerous world out there. Be cautious and don’t trust everyone you meet.
- Enjoy the ride. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Take advantage of it and have some fun!
Isekai Checklist: In Summary
So there you have it, folks, the Isekai Checklist – your guide to determining whether you’re dreaming, in a coma, in VR, or actually in a magical new world.
- Dreams: Can’t control your surroundings.
- Coma: No ability to move or interact with the world.
- Virtual Reality: Progress, limitations, and glitches.
- Isekai Reality: Breathing, food issues, and magic.
Remember, even if you’re not in an Isekai world, there’s always something new to discover and explore right here on Earth. And who knows, maybe you’ll even find yourself transported to another world one day. Just remember to bring this checklist with you!
Stay safe, stay curious, and most importantly, stay awesome!
Translator’s Blog
Blog
- How to Not Die Like Jiraiya: A Guide to Staying Alive
- Who’s Your Waifu? Why Choosing Your Anime Spirit Animal Is Deeper Than You Think (And Who I’d Pick)
- Is My Brain Turning Into a Pile of Mush From All This Light/Web Novel Reading?
- Auntie’s Posting Passive-Aggressive Prayers Again: How to Survive Your Family on Facebook (Without Committing Seppuku)
- Will My Cat Eat Me When I Die? (The Truth Might Hurt… Your Feelings)
Leave a Reply