I've tried a number of ways to get thicker opaque layers of acrylic paint. I use Nova Colors, which are a great consistency for applying with squeeze bottles (https://amzn.to/2MVddKS (larger) or https://amzn.to/2P30lQk (smaller 8 oz; check https://www.artandsuccess.com/p/resources  for more options) and they work great for getting thick, opaque paint. I've also used a trowel to smooth out thick paint (it does take longer to dry, however!). I'd say many of the things you can do with oil/cwm you can also do with acrylics - there are many mediums you can add to acrylics to make them stay "open" and workable longer, for example, or to make them thicker - if you are familiar with Golden products!