Attempting to install Ubuntu on an MSI GS70 2OD-001US notebook pre-installed with Windows 8.

For the record this is what I have attempted:

All cases were attempted with Ubuntu 12.0.4.3 AND 13.10 images via USB drives

Case 1 - Attempt no changes and simply boot from USB

Result: It seems to want to work initially. The Ubuntu logo pops up and the dots start moving. After a few seconds the dots freeze and this screen is shown: http://i.imgur.com/C7pyMRk.jpg

Case 2 - Start playing with BIOS - In Windows turning off fast boot - In BIOS turning off Secure boot - In BIOS turning off UEFI and selecting LEGACY

Result: Brought to a black screen with a - blinking at me.

Case 3 - Alternating BIOS settings - In Windows turning off fast boot - In BIOS turning off Secure boot - in BIOS turning off UEFI and selecting UEFI with CSM

Result: Brought to a black screen no other indication of change.

It's pretty frustrating to feel locked out of a laptop that I have paid good money for, I'm sure I am not alone in that case. It does however appear that there has been some success, so I am hopeful that someone might be able to help me.

FYI: Dual booting is not necessary for me, if that helps at all...

I'm not sure if this is a reasonable option, but if I completely wipe clean the hdds, no particle of Windows at all, would this still be a problem? Also would opening up the laptop and replacing the HDDS with brand new ones be a solution as well?

Thanks for any input or suggestions.