Why Some Game Clones Outperform Originals

In the ever-evolving world of video games, originality is often celebrated as the pinnacle of creative achievement. Yet, paradoxically, some games that are openly inspired by—or even outright clones of—established titles manage to surpass their predecessors in popularity, gameplay, or financial success. How does this happen? The answer lies in a combination of refinement, timing, and understanding player psychology.

Learning from the Original’s Mistakes

One of the most common reasons a clone outperforms its inspiration is that it identifies and fixes flaws in the original. The first iteration of a game concept is rarely perfect; it may suffer from clunky controls, unbalanced mechanics, or poor pacing. A well-made clone can analyze these weaknesses and polish the experience. For example, PUBG popularized the battle royale genre, but Fortnite refined it with faster gameplay, building mechanics, and a more vibrant aesthetic—ultimately reaching a broader audience.

Timing and Market Gaps

Sometimes, a clone succeeds simply because it arrives at the right moment. The original game may have laid the groundwork but failed to capitalize on a growing trend or shifting player preferences. Among Us, for instance, borrowed heavily from social deduction games like Mafia and Werewolf, but its sudden explosion in popularity came during the COVID-19 pandemic, when players craved accessible, socially engaging experiences. The original concepts were solid, but Among Us filled a cultural and technological gap at the perfect time.

Accessibility and Platform Optimization

A clone can also outperform by being more accessible. If the original game is locked behind hardware limitations, a high price point, or a niche audience, a well-optimized clone can democratize the experience. Stardew Valley, inspired by Harvest Moon, became a massive hit by refining the farming sim formula, adding deeper customization, and releasing on multiple platforms. Similarly, Genshin Impact drew comparisons to The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild but found success by being free-to-play and available on mobile, reaching millions who didn’t own a Nintendo Switch.

Community and Live Service Enhancements

Modern gaming thrives on live updates, community engagement, and evolving content. Some clones take an existing idea and build upon it with continuous support, seasonal events, and player-driven feedback. League of Legends, for example, was initially inspired by Defense of the Ancients (DotA), but its frequent updates, competitive scene, and developer transparency helped it dominate the MOBA genre for years.

The Power of Iteration

Innovation doesn’t always mean starting from scratch. Many of gaming’s greatest successes come from taking a proven concept and elevating it through smart iteration. Clones that outperform originals aren’t just copying—they’re refining, adapting, and sometimes even revolutionizing the blueprint they follow. In the end, players reward the experience, not just the idea.