Asus has launched in stores the ROG 2.5, a console-inspired gaming PC that delivers performance in a compact 2.5-liter chassis. ROG GR8 boasts an Intel Core i7 processor and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 750Ti graphics for Full HD gaming. It features up to 16GB DDR3L memory, a hard disk drive or high-speed solid state drive (SSD), built-in dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi, and comes preinstalled with Windows 8.1. ROG GR8 also has a built-in Miracast receiver to stream HD content wirelessly from supported Android smart devices or Windows 8.1 PCs directly to a HDTV. ROG GR8 even has 4K/UHD support and can be hooked up to a HDTV through a HDMI or DisplayPort connection.

ROG GR8 features special slide-off covers for easy access to the additional 2.5-inch drive bay and SO-DIMM memory slots for quick upgrades.

ROG GR8 has Intel Ethernet for better throughput along with GameFirst III, which optimizes networks to give users lag-free gameplay. GameFirst III features four preset packet-priority modes, and manual settings for users who want total control over their network. The built-in Network Monitor tool even lets users manage network traffic and test connection speeds.

The pre-installed Steam utility lets users download games into the ROG GR8 in a few clicks. They can even play their PC games on a Full HD TV thanks to Steam Big Picture.

Other features include SupremeFX audio, Sonic SenseAmp, Sonic SoundStage, Sonic Studio, and Sonic Radar II.

Sonic SenseAmp automatically adjusts the built-in amplifier to match headphone impedance.

Sonic SoundStage lets gamers select the best audio settings for their favorite game genres in real time. This can be done via software, or purely though hardware via the BIOS menu; it does this without the help of the OS or drivers. Sonic SoundStage even works with SteamOS.

Sonic Studio is a tuning suite that features one-click Virtual Surround for 7.1-channel audio, even on 2-channel stereo headsets. It even lets users control Reverb, Bass Boost, Equalizer, Voice Clarity and Smart EQ settings. Sonic Radar II features an on-screen overlay that shows the relative position of gunshots, footsteps and other sound effects to give gamers an aural advantage on the battlefield.

ROG GR8 is drawing less than 15W at idle, and is very quiet at just 20dB at idle and 28dB when running at full capacity. It comes bundled with two superb ROG accessories: the ROG Gladius optical mouse and M801 mechanical keyboard.

Pricing is not known, though given the specs, it should cost less than the $1,499 Vapor Xtreme.