Which video decoder should I use for cutscenes in my game?

Question

The game franchise I am working on uses a video encoder/decoder library which produces rather large files. We want to change to something a little more efficient, particularly H.264 or VP8. However, there seem to be extensive legal issues revolving around software licensing to navigate, and threats of a challenge to VP8.

So what I want is a C++ header and library file I can statically link to the game to decode an efficiently compressed video stream. I'll consider commercial ones that offer patent indemnity (we're using Bink at the moment). Licensing needs to be sympathetic to a commercial product. An answer about the legal situation would be helpful too...

Thanks!

Guy

Answer 1

After lengthy legal consideration, we have migrated to libVP8. It is a fine library.