Are there any programs that I can use to play HD-DVD (bluray too if possible) from a directory (.evo files)?

Have you checked out PowerDVD Ultra? I know it can play HD movies from a HD, but I am not sure what format of files.

You are in the wrong section. HTPC

There are currently 3 programs.

Nero 7ultra/8 WITH the HD DVD/BR plugin (you can get a cheap copy of nero 8 off ebay and then just buy the plugin for $25)

PowerDVD 7.3 ultra $99 (the oem that comes with a drive is only 2 channel)

Arcsoft Theatertek HD $99

PowerDVD used to be able to play straight EVO files, but now only Nero does.

The preferred option in my opinion is the get Nero 8 (if you don't already have it) and get the HD plugin. And then get AnyDVD HD to put the files on your hard drive. It may seem like a bad idea to put them on your hard drive for convenience, but you can strip it down to just the evo only which reduces file size down to 13-22 GB. So you could fit about 22-30 per $99 500GB hard drive which is pretty reasonable with no PQ loss through transcoding.

interesting side note, all us HD HTPC owners have been all too aware of how much space is wasted in bluray which is why most prefer to rip HD DVD. Most Blurays use about 15-20gb for the movie and then 10-30gb for meaningless extras. I just bought a BR drive for my htpc, but will still get HD DVD first when available.

You are in the wrong section. HTPC

There are currently 3 programs.

Nero 7ultra/8 WITH the HD DVD/BR plugin (you can get a cheap copy of nero 8 off ebay and then just buy the plugin for $25)

PowerDVD 7.3 ultra $99 (the oem that comes with a drive is only 2 channel)

Arcsoft Theatertek HD $99

PowerDVD used to be able to play straight EVO files, but now only Nero does.

The preferred option in my opinion is the get Nero 8 (if you don't already have it) and get the HD plugin. And then get AnyDVD HD to put the files on your hard drive. It may seem like a bad idea to put them on your hard drive for convenience, but you can strip it down to just the evo only which reduces file size down to 13-22 GB. So you could fit about 22-30 per $99 500GB hard drive which is pretty reasonable with no PQ loss through transcoding.

interesting side note, all us HD HTPC owners have been all too aware of how much space is wasted in bluray which is why most prefer to rip HD DVD. Most Blurays use about 15-20gb for the movie and then 10-30gb for meaningless extras. I just bought a BR drive for my htpc, but will still get HD DVD first when available.

Sorry I thought this counted as HD-DVD software. Thanks for the advice. Also, Do you know what version exactly of powerdvd played Evo files? 7.3.????