I'm a total noob at 3D modelling.  Trying to self-teach.  At the moment I'm learning about normal maps, and I see a few options as to how to go about creating them. In particular, I'm trying to focus on game assets, so I'm trying to dress up my meshes with interesting normal maps.

I could use opinions on which of these routes is considered better.

1.  Paint the model using some program that has brushes capable of "depth".

2.  Use a sculpting program to build a quasi higher-resolution model with details and "bake" these onto the original low poly asset.

Thanks for any opinions, tips and warnings!