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.