Looking for a modern (WWII or later) military wargame

[wookieegunner]

So, last night the owner of my FLGS asked me if I know of any good wargames that meet the following criteria:

1) Based on modern(ish) military (WWII or newer)
2) Must be realistic (i.e. no AE:WWII or Secrects of the Third Reich)
3) Prefers pre-painted minis
4) Must handle 3 dimensions (i.e. have rules for sticking different units above below each other on floors of a building, snipers on a roof top have advantages, etc.)
5) He didn't specifically say this but it felt like he wants one that uses ruler measurements instead of band measurements (i.e. this unit goes 6 inches, not this unit has a slow rate on the included special ruler).

Since I mostly play fantasical stuff (GW, a little PP, etc) not sure what to recommend. I know about Flames of War, wasn't sure if it would work or not. Anyone have any other ideas?

[porkuslime]

Axis and Allies miniatures?

http://wizards.com/default.asp?x=ah/aa/welcome

I have no idea of the game play or anything.. but I know it is pre-painted plastic.. lol'

-Porkuslime

[JohnHwangBT]

As I see it:
- Flames of War would generally be the best starting place for a WW2 wargame - it's popular and accessible.
- Axis&Allies minis is a bit more like a clix game, and random buying isn't desirable.
- traditional 15mm WW2 wargaming rulesets tend to be more obscure, and cater to those who already know WW2.
- Memoir '44 is a tremendously fun boardgame that captures the essence of WW2 battle, but won't have the level of detail that you're looking for.

Overall, I'd recommend Flames.

If prepaint is a dealbreaker requirement, then consider Axis & Allies minis using FoW rules.

[wookieegunner]

Thanks. The feeling I got was that 15mm wasn't a requirement. I know there are several 25mm WWII manufacturers (don't know if you can find newer), but I don't know what rulesets you use with those.

[fitterpete]

Yeah I just can't remember it! I saw a 25mm prepainted game at Cold Wars.The prepaints are for modern infantry,M1 tanks and such.They also have rules for WW2 but don't think they have prepaints yet.Let me do a little research.

[fitterpete]

Yah I know that was quick.It's called Battlefeild Evolution by Mongoose Publishing.