Is your world just a rehashing of western Europe? Does this really matter?

Apologies if I've missed this, but I am new to world building and the stack exchange world. It's my understanding that fantasy and DND is built around European nations. What are people's views on this topic? If someone makes up their own fictional continents, but they resemble the European nations of today do they get any slack? Should they? For example I am currently drawing up a continent that has a Germany, Italy, and France. It is not these nations, but it will have similar aspects. Should we stray away from this, or is it ok to add "homages" to the world? Should these worlds not be taken seriously? Any thoughts on this topic would be appreciated. <br><br>Edit: Thank you for your comments everyone. I am grateful that this is allowed and no one is belittling my work. I believe I'm going to try and create something unique, while still paying homage. I don't think I have the capability to 100% replicate a nation, and I certainly don't think I have the capability to create something entirely unique. So I think the happy middle ground, what was suggested, is my best bet. Thank you all!