What is the difference between cultivation novels and system novels, and can they overlap?

Cultivation novels, often found in the Eastern fantasy genre, typically focus on characters striving to improve their martial arts and spiritual power through rigorous training, meditation, and the absorption of natural energies like Qi. The progression is usually organic, driven by dedication, talent, and overcoming challenges within a structured martial or spiritual hierarchy. The goal is often immortality or ultimate power through self-mastery. System novels, on the other hand, often involve a protagonist who gains access to a supernatural interface or 'system' that provides them with quests, skills, stats, and rewards. This system acts as a guide or a tool for rapid advancement, often with a more gamified feel. The progression can be heavily influenced by the system's mechanics and objectives. Yes, these two genres can absolutely overlap. Many system novels incorporate cultivation elements, where the system helps the protagonist cultivate faster or unlocks new cultivation techniques. Similarly, a cultivation novel might introduce a system-like element that aids the protagonist's journey. For example, "I Have an Omen System" blends the concept of a system with a fantasy world, likely influencing the protagonist's path which could involve elements akin to cultivation or spiritual growth. "Climbing the Tower to Be a God With 10x Gacha System" also clearly uses a system, specifically a gacha mechanic, to facilitate the protagonist's ascent and power gain, which can be seen as a form of accelerated progression in a fantasy setting.