I'm the opposite. I have Windows 8 on both my G74SX ROG laptop, and my custom desktop build. Both run without a hitch, and I haven't had any issues (other than having to use some of the G75 utilities to get some laptop functionality back on my laptop). No problems gaming, and no installation issues.
Windows 8 definitely takes some time to get used to (lack of a start button w/o mods, etc) but it grew on me. My wife wanted Metro and I needed a reason to wipe the computer anyways as it was due for a reload; so I compromised and went with Win8 and honestly it grew on me and I dig it. Metro is nice to keep track/organization of my constantly used apps, and it performs solid for me in gaming, photoshop, some minor video editing, and so forth.