Empire of the Dead is the most fun I've had in years - I was in the same boat, loads of Vampire Wars and Rippers Miniatures.
The Mrs got me Empire (half get well soon, half early fathers day) as a Present - and the curse began!
I won't say its "the best game ever" - but it's definitely the easiest to understand and have fun with that I've encountered in the last couple of years!
(Oh, and welcome aboard LoL)