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I would personally go for "prepainted" minis that look good. I do NOT enjoy painting, but I expect that in terms of the hobby I'm unusual in that regard.

I think it would be tough, at least initially, to have minis "painted" that emulate the shading effects of even washing and drybrushing. The point of "good" painting is to emphasize the shape and detail of the mini to a degree that standard shadows don't create on it. So until the pre-made/painted are at least the quality of a basecoat and wash, I won't be buying them.

That said... if they ever get to basecoat / wash / highlight level quality, I doubt I'd ever paint a grunt again. I'd certainly entertain the idea of collecting Orks, that I *especially* hate painting. I would pay a premium above grey plastic, to have that ready, out of the box.

I don't think that painting will go away, as an activity. I would happily do away with it myself, at least for chump-models like Guardsman 132 with lasgun... but that's only me. I expect it would simply open up the hobby (gaming) side to more people. So far as I know, X-Wing minis come pre-painted but lots of people re-paint them to look nicer, or more to their liking.

I can also follow the "My Guys" sentiment. I have ruminated on getting someone else to paint them. I'm not picky... basic tabletop is all I'd be after, but I keep coming back to,

"But someone else painted them."

and despite my dislike of painting, my ego (?) dislikes the idea of using someone else's paint job. Between that and the cost, I can't internally justify getting someone else to paint my minis when I don't think I'll have the same attachment to them.

Oh well, a vicious circle, I guess.

Life's good. Never hurts to share, it's what we're here for.