I recently retired and now have the time to enjoy all those video games I used to think my kids were wasting their time on. I'm not a pure gamer, but I wanted to replace my old computer with a laptop powerful enough to let me play War Thunder, which I got hooked on while visiting a relative, and I wanted something that was going to perform for several years despite increasingly complex games and programs. As a former analyst, I spent a week reviewing web sites, top ten lists (the independent ones and paid-for ones), and customer reviews of specific computers and manufacturers. I charted and compared specs, issues, warranties, complaints, price points, discounts, and sales specials. Size wasn't an issue - pun intended - as my computer is mostly stationary, but I wanted something we could take on trips, and I wanted a 17" screen. As it turns out, when you are gearing up to play graphic intensive games, the larger the laptop the better the cooling factor, which can be critical to keeping the graphic card from throttling back when it gets too hot. Overall, MSI provided the highest amount of latest technology (processor, SSD's, GPU's, dedicated graphic memory, etc) with the least reported issues and problems among the johnny-come-lately manufacturers, and for the lowest overall price, especially when supplemented by Best Buy's coupons, points and cash back program. The whole package on this computer came in under $1600, which no other retailer came close to. MSI started in the internal computer component business, so this is a natural extension for them. Not surprising, they had some customer service issues when they switched from being a wholesaler to a retailer, but that seems to have improved, and Best Buy has decent support staff. Like most, I don't care for the Windows 8 environment, but the computer has exceeded expectations, providing > 60 - 100 fps regardless of the intensity of the game (higher frames per second = better), the sound is outstanding with the built-in woofer, and it cools exceptionally well with no noise. The large vents face the rear of the computer so you hands to not sweat from side-vented heat typical of other models. It is also nice to have the plug at the rear rather than the side, keeping it clear of the mouse and easier to move to different locations. Detractors complain of cheap plasticy feel with some brands, but that is not the case here (yes, pun intended again), the computer looks great and is solid and remains so after > 100 hours of intensive play. I am more limited by my internet connection now than the computer. Like most, I am not a fan of the Windows 8 or 8.1 environment, but that is pretty much standard now.
The GT72 Dominator unit has more connections than you could possibly need from 2.0 to 3.0 and HDMI so none of your existing peripherals will be orphaned, outstanding screen clarity, my kids love the multi-color backlit keys, and the near instant start up and speed of the solid stat drive is a pleasure. I've noted little difference during tests between the 2.4 and 5.0 wifi options, but my speed is probably more controlled and limited by the crowding on Comcast's internet network. Not often considered, the keys can be critical to longevity, as I learned with my Sony Vaio when the touchpad enter key broke in year 1. This is especially true for gaming, where you may be pressing/pounding the same key over and over again. The GT72 Dominator keyboard is comfortably large for man hands and very solid.
Since the key internal components are the same between most computers, it pretty much boils down to who can put the latest components together at the lowest price and with most competency and quality control. MSI's manufacturing origin seems to have given them the ability to give you the most bang for your buck with the fewest issues. Laptops are currently ranging from about 4 lbs to as much at 13 lbs, with the smaller ones having lightweight keyboards, heat issues and cutting out traditional items like cd/DVD players, which you then have to buy separately, If you are looking for the current best blend between a desktop and a laptop at a price around $1500 that will handle the next several years, this is the computer for you.