Necessary programs for a HTPC

[HorrorCosmic]

I just finished my (on the cheap) HTPC / steam box and I need some recommendations for programs to make things easier.

 

I already have an audio swap program so i can easily switch from the hdmi audio to controller audio. and steam will handle DS4 support and all that. But what else can i use to make the "home theater" experience more enjoyable?

[Guest]

9 minutes ago, wrathoftheturkey said:

Steam

Chrome

Skype???????

VLC

XBMC/Kodi/Plex(if you have Plex)

Pretty much it, unless you use Spotify

Homegroup

 

[HorrorCosmic]

Just now, wrathoftheturkey said:

Steam

Chrome

Skype???????

VLC

XBMC/Kodi/Plex(if you have Plex)

Pretty much it, unless you use Spotify

Check

check

check

check

no plex but i've heard of XBMC before, what is it exactly?

no spotify, but google play music.

 

I was thinking of some programs that'll help with system settings and configurations. Something to help with certain text. things like that.

[HorrorCosmic]

Just now, wrathoftheturkey said:

not much, really

 

it's a HT-friendly media player.

I was looking at XBMC last night, now called Kodi. I couldn't get the addons to work like a netflix one i found that claims to work, but i like that it has controller support. If i can get hulu, netflix and maybe amazon prime on it then i'll probably use it.

[d3sl91]

1 hour ago, HorrorCosmic said:

I was looking at XBMC last night, now called Kodi. I couldn't get the addons to work like a netflix one i found that claims to work, but i like that it has controller support. If i can get hulu, netflix and maybe amazon prime on it then i'll probably use it.

If you are not yet heavily invested i n Kodi - I would recommend looking at Plex Home Theater - works with controllers as well, and, IMO is a more polished interface.