System-level video decoders were used in Macromedia Director during multimedia and early Internet days, but developers found it didn't work very well... you had

System-level video decoders were used in Macromedia Director during multimedia and early Internet days, but developers found it didn't work very well... you had to choose an architecture(s), then had to test for its presence and do version-detection, then handle the installation/support process for audience members who needed it. "Use the system's video" sounds attractive, but just pushes the problem down the stack. Your mileage may differ, but I've seen people try it before....