This is a great discussion-provoking question. I make character modeling projects by this formula: 50% is determined what I think would be popular, and the other 50% I have to be passionate about and have fun making. I go out of my way though to make sure my texture work is unique. I do not let myself fall into the gritty PBR monotone earthy super realistic next gen models, but instead I try to make each of my models really colorful and look like parts of it are hand painted even though they aren't ( I have some secret techniques in painter hehe) and basically not let Blizzard games corner the market on high quality but cartoony textured characters. I don't know if I'm describing my point good enough, hopefully you understand : )