Can I synchronize different MS Access back-up copies or do I need replicas?

I’ve inherited an Access database with about 5 replicas that I often need to synchronize. I have recently created another replica by simply using a back-up of another replica.

Synchronization between the backed-up replica and the others has been fine, but I read today that one is supposed to properly create replicas off the design master (which is in sombody else’s possession).

Will I run into trouble if I continue using a backed-up copy as replica? (I also need to add another ‘replica’.)

Thanks!
Marina la Grange