I've always felt like the whole docker/jellyfin/plex/loads-of-other-apps stuff is way too overboard just to do a bit of pirating, so I usually just hop on one of the movie/show or anime streaming sites with uBlock Origin installed and watch that way.

Currently I'm looking at what I can setup in the living room, and was thinking of just using an old PC with a wireless keyboard. I would like to use a media center type interface, but I've never actually used Kodi before. Would I be able to just use Kodi to stream from those kinds of services?

Searches so far show that everyone apparently uses Kodi with something called Real Debrid, which I have zero interest in.

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[–] theangriestbird@beehaw.org 5 points 3 days ago (2 children)

I wonder if even VLC could run those streams for you? 🤔 Not sure, but whats the appeal for you over just opening the browser on your HTPC?

[–] AnimalsDream@slrpnk.net 4 points 3 days ago

Yeah currently I'm just leaning toward using a docked Steam Deck, and using desktop mode with a wireless keyboard that has a built-in touchpad. The browser as is would be fine.

Maybe if I want to put in the extra effort I can see about adding the browser as a "non-Steam game" and set it to open straight to a streaming site, so that I can open it directly from gaming mode.

[–] bjoern_tantau@swg-empire.de 3 points 3 days ago (1 children)

The streams are not the problem. Sometimes with content that was especially hard to find I'd grab the URL to the stream and download it via curl.

The problem is getting there. You have to navigate through treacherous sites with dubious "Stream now" buttons that bring even the best ad blockers to their limits. With myriad "sorry your stream is in another castle" and CAPTCHAS so complicated they could summon Cthulhu.

I think op doesn't want to navigate that shit with a remote keyboard and mouse and would rather have a nice interface that hides all that shit.

[–] AnimalsDream@slrpnk.net 3 points 3 days ago* (last edited 3 days ago) (1 children)

I think you're exaggerating about those sites. With an adblocker turned on they're generally totally fine, and often a nicer viewing experience than some of the big streaming services - especially YouTube.

I actually wouldn't mind playing directly from those sites in fact. My biggest priority is having a convenient home screen or desktop on the TV, and providing easy one-click access to those services to make it easy to use if I have guests over or something.

[–] theangriestbird@beehaw.org 4 points 3 days ago

That makes sense. I'm just not sure how to make that a clean experience, beyond acquiring files and setting up my own server.