Using a given set of constraints to the maximum and learning to exploit all additional resources to create the most accurate and functional representation of an original concept, can lead to the strong creation of a model.
The world is not perfect. Everything has a story.This concept can be used to create a model that is interesting and believable.
A model should be well integrated into it's environment. This is something that is often over looked and many times a contributor to an unbelievable or distorted scene.
Composition and other traditional art concepts should be awknowledeged and accomodated while the model creation process evolves.
Building a model is fun and very fullfilling. CG modelling only helps advance the realm of possiblilites while still using the same traditional approaches. A game environment utilizes a certain focus of discipline and attention that the traditional model building process can help a great deal with. Be patient and have fun!