RealPlayer Basic

There's no such corporate tie in with RealPlayer, but what was once a strong force is now looking tattered around the edges. First, you'd think clicking the link for the Basic version would get you just that, but throughout the website and installer Real does everything it can to persuade you that you'd prefer to shell out for the Plus version.

If you can navigate your way to a safely installed RealPlayer Basic, you'll then be bombarded with a bandwidth-intensive MTV-style portal with the latest news and music videos, as well as news and ad pop-ups even when you're not using the player. In short, if you're used to a basic media interface you're in for a shock.

The player itself is pretty good, with support for a large number of formats. But the fact that we've only ever wanted it installed when we've needed to play a clip on the BBC website - whose recent redesign has thankfully moved to embedded clips instead - is testament to how bloated it is.

It requires an email address and postcode to install, and you'll need to go through the preferences carefully to avoid regular emails about Britney. For us, a video player should primarily play video; RealPlayer tries so hard to be an all-bases entertainment hub that it soon outstays its welcome.

Download RealPlayer Basic here.

Reviews:
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RealPlayer Basic
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Author: David Bayon