Sukayo wrote:But nice discussion going on - what i do not get is - when a clone, why you try to understand original data? Creating it new will at least when documented secure that you now every bit of info stored inside.
I guess I could first argue that it is not a 'clone' in the true sense unless it represents the game exactly. But I think there are a few good reasons to use original assets. First, people like the familiar, so you want to recreate it as close to the original as possible. This will help cutback on negative feedback from your established base (the players of the original game). Once you have the base game up and running you can slowly make tweaks and changes and people can decide for themselves if they prefer the changes. Secondly, but perhaps more importantly is the reduced requirements to make a playable experience. If you can use the original assets it is one less thing to create. Once you do have the basics of a game up and running you can slowly swap out content as time and resources permit.
Another benefit is that some features or tools built for the clone can be used with the original (or vice versa). You can share content between the two.