Bussifrog

Thanks so much for the detailed and thoughtful response — I really appreciate you taking the time to explain the situation clearly. For now, I’ve rolled back to 13.18 and disabled updates to preserve stability on my end. FightersDLX is more than just a theme — it’s a fully integrated arcade frontend system with specific folder structures, embedded transitions, video layering, and curated media packs. So unfortunately, it’s not as simple as sending over a theme file for testing. That said, I totally understand the decision to move toward a more maintainable video engine. I’ll keep an eye on FFmpeg improvements going forward, and I’m happy to continue providing feedback where I can. Thanks again for the transparency and the offer to collaborate — it really does mean a lot.

Thanks for the reply @skizzosjt Yeah I don't know what to do...the current options are a no go..they just can't handle it. I do get the crashes now but that is of very recent update. I have had a stable build for like 10 years now. This is all quite the annoyance but I rolled my system back and turned off ask about updates and I guess that's that. Sad but true. I wish you luck on you builds.

Hi team, After testing post-13.24 and beta hotfixes, I’ve confirmed that custom BigBox themes relying on VLC for complex video playback (e.g., multiple TransitionPresenters, background game videos, overlays, etc.) are now broken. While stability may have improved with FFMPEG, functionality has taken a major hit — many MP4 videos that previously worked fine in VLC either won’t play at all or fail silently under FFMPEG or WMP. My custom theme (FightersDLX) was working flawlessly across thousands of videos until the VLC support was removed. Now, even simple background videos used in specific layout zones don’t consistently play, though the exact same files work elsewhere (e.g., in playlist BGs or LaunchBox proper). This change essentially cripples years of theme work. VLC had broad compatibility and should remain an option for advanced users. FFMPEG is simply not viable for every use case — especially for curated arcade or console cabinets running custom themes. Can VLC be restored as an optional engine? Thanks.

Hi all, I'm a long-time theme developer and curator of a heavily customized BigBox build designed not just for personal use, but for distribution to others who rely on it. After extensive testing, I’ve confirmed that the removal of VLC support in version 13.24 has introduced a critical regression in video playback for custom themes — especially those using TransitionPresenter, IsContentVideo, or complex media-bound layouts. The new FFmpeg-based engine simply cannot handle the same load and binding behavior as VLC could. It struggles with: Real-time video swapping within complex WPF grids TransitionPresenter bindings with IsContentVideo Non-standard or high-bitrate MP4s that previously worked fine Layouts with layered or animated transitions (crashes, freezing, no playback) These issues are not due to video corruption or theme bugs. The exact same themes and video files work flawlessly in 13.23 and earlier, and still play in LaunchBox (not BigBox) because the layout complexity isn’t a factor there. For now, the only solution for theme developers is to roll back to 13.23 and lock that version for end users, which is not a sustainable or scalable solution — especially for those of us supporting others through platforms like Patreon. I strongly urge the LaunchBox team to consider: Reinstating VLC as an optional playback engine Or providing an advanced setting to toggle VLC support for users/themes that require it Please understand that for some of us, this update didn't just change playback — it broke entire curated projects. We're not resistant to progress, but this was a step backwards for those relying on VLC’s capabilities to power ambitious designs. This has been based on my personal observations. If any one else is experiencing this or knows of an actionable solution I welcome your reply. Thanks for your time and consideration.

Yeah this update destroyed my BB build...the vids no longer work..they just freeze if they show at all.

igotdvds...Hey man thank-you so so so much for this.. TRULY AWESOME...much props to this app and yourself..Thank-You!!