UH I have a Guard army of over 100 minis two tanks and a CHimera APC total cost was only about $400 and that was over a period of 3 Years because a buddy and I play whenever we can get together. Of course I'm not done yet muahahahaha!
That's not so bad considering many people spend $400 dollars on Coffee a year lol
Besides that though I just don't see your problem with simple rules for the Tabletop game I like them because it allows for a fast paced action oriented game as opposed to sitting there for an hour just plotting MOVES heh.
Now add to that the fact that i am now getting into Full Thrust and literally scratch building a fleet at the total cost of about 5 bucks and I find ways to cut corners and expenses to play my hobby games
