Ask HN: Would you use a self-hosted server that streams media and video games?
I’m working on an open-source project called MediaVault, aiming to combine media streaming and game streaming into one unified, self-hosted server.
Current tools are split across different ecosystems (Plex/Jellyfin for video, Moonlight/Sunshine/RetroArch/Playnite/etc. for games). I’m exploring whether one coherent platform makes sense.
Core ideas:
- Stream movies, shows, music
- Stream PC and emulated games
- Same UI, same API, same server
- Controller passthrough over WebRTC
- Treat games as “media entries” with metadata, covers, and launch scripts
- Optional cloud sync for game saves - Docker-first deployment
- API that can support third-party clients easily
Think of it as combining Jellyfin + Playnite, but with the ability to stream both media and games to devices on your network.
Before I commit fully to game streaming integration, I’d love feedback on a few things:
- Is there a meaningful benefit to unifying media and game streaming under one server/API, or is separation fundamentally better?
- For game streaming, what’s the minimal viable core: WebRTC, controller passthrough, automatic emulator launch, or something else?
- Are video transcoding and real-time game streaming too divergent to live inside one backend, or is it feasible with good modularity?
- What are the biggest frustrations with running Jellyfin/Plex + Sunshine/Moonlight + Playnite/EmulationStation as separate tools?
- Are there security implications I should consider when exposing media libraries and executable launchers behind one unified API?
- What would a unified solution need to do significantly better than today’s separated-stack setups to justify switching?
Repo: https://github.com/media-vault
I think it’s a great idea!
I would try and be more ‘use case focused’ instead of trying to replace/combining existing things. I love the idea of a more connected/social future.
Make it easy to self host and give people more ways to connect.
What could you provide that would convince a friend group to leave discord for this?
Watching movies together and playing games/chatting sounds compelling?
I think my appeal is I would love to go from streaming a movie to emulating Super Mario in the same software on my TV and just need to pick up a controller.
Thanks! Agreed, I think that is where I am trying to find a path forward without recreating a lot...