First let's get a general idea about what an MKV is.

Part 1. What's MKV
MKV means "matroska video" and it is a "extensible open standard Audio/Video container"(not format, also can call"Multimedia Container") that supports various audio, video and subtitle compression formats. This file format combines several videostreams, audiostreams, subtitles, chapters and information in only one file. common AVl, VOB, MPEG, RM format actually belong to this type. however, they are either obsolete structure, or open enough, this led to a new type of multi-media package MKV format was born.

Part 2. How to play MKV file
VLC player can be used to open and play .mkv files. VLC player is a free, open-source media player for Windows, Linux and Mac OS X, that can play files of almost every format. The advantage of VLC player is that you do not have to install any additional codec (that many other players require) - this is because most codecs are bundled with VLC player.

VLC Media Player
Download Link: http://uberdownloads.com/software/video-player/VLC.html

Part 3. How to convert MKV file to MP4 AVI to play on PS3&Xbox 360

1.Convert MKV to mp4 and streaming MKV files to PS3 & XBOX 360 for free

GOTSent is a 100% freeware to convert .MKV (Matroska) video files to the .MP4 (MPEG-4) format. and the MPEG-4 is a widely supported audio/video format which can be played on the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 or other portable mp4 players
And this part this we will explain the basics of using the free GOTSent application for the conversion(for PS3 user, you also can use mk2vob (Xbox 360 doesn't support VOB files though), cuz mk2vob only changes the container, it works fast and with high video quality).

What We need:
1.GOTSENT
2.AC3Filter - install AC3Filter for audio output settings
3.HAAliMedia Splitter - Haali Media Splitter must be installed for proper MKV file support

Step 1. install and run GOTSent. It's very easy to use, which has two input fields, one for input MKV, one for output folder (for MP4 file), allows you to select audio if there is multiple, browse subtitles, specify language and more.

Step 2. Add MKV files
To load an MKV file into GOTSent simply click File and use the file browser that pops up to find the MKV file you want to convert. You also must set an Output folder, you can do this by clicking Set Output and locating the folder with the browser that pops up. Next check to see if there is multiple audio with the drop-down box under Audio detected and select the language you want.

Make sure to select Split > 4GB as there is a size limit of 4GB for MKV files on Xbox 360. Fit to DVD is your choice. Before we begin conversion, we have to make sure that the audio that comes out is not multi-channel (unsupported by Xbox 360). Click AC3Filter Options.

Step 3.Configure AC3Filter Options
Based on the settings you put into AC3Filter, the conversion process will either create two-channel or multi-channel audio. Under Output format, change it to 2/0 - stereo to ensure compatibility of the output MP4 file with Xbox 360. When you are done, click Apply and click OK.

Step 4. Start Conversion
Click the Convert button to begin the conversion process. Several DOS windows will pop-up during the process, do not close these as they are important. The amount of time the process will take depends entirely on the length of the MKV file and the speed of your computer.

Note: The MP4 Files can be Played Both on Xbox 360 and PS3

2.Convert MKV to MP4 AVI to play on PS3, Xbox 360 with Daniusoft Video Converter
If you are looking for a fast & effient way to convert MKV files, Daniusoft Video Converter is quite a good choice, this powerful video converter supports all popular video even HD video,here is the main technical parameter

Input formats:
Common Video, HD Video, Audio:
MP4, MPG, MPEG, 3GP, RM, RMVB, DAT, MOV, FLV, AVI, Xvid, VOB, MKV, M2TS, TP, TRP, TS, AVI, MP3, WAV, M4A, WMA, OGG, AAC, APE

Output formats:
MP4, MPG, MPEG, 3GP,3G2, MOV, FLV, AVI, Xvid, VOB, WMV, ASF, M4V, MKV, MP3, WAV, M4A, WMA, OGG, AAC, AC3, APE, MKA

Simple steps to convert MKV Video files to MP4 for PS3 & Xbox 360

1. Click "Add" button to add MKV files.

2. Choose "MP4" as the output format

3. Edit your original videos(Optional)

4. Press the "Start" button.

Free Download it Now: http://www.convert-video-dvd.com/video-converter.html#141

Note: Daniusoft Video Converter directly gets audio and video stream at the bottom of the operating system and supports batch and multithreading conversion, so the output quality is very good and the conversion speed is fast.

1. select files
2. convert
3. enjoy

MP4-Converter is the next generation easy-to-use software that converts any popular video format like AVI, DivX, MPEG, WMV, MOV, RM, VOB, 3GP to MP4.

Extremely fast conversion speed and simple user interface. Free trial.

MP4-Converter is the easiest solution to all your MP4 video converting problems. It can convert just about any video format - AVI, MPEG, WMV, MOV, RM, MP4, 3GP, VOB and H.264/MPEG-4 AVC, AVCHD High-Definition (HD) video for use with MP4 devices.

The converted files will work on any iPod, iPhone, PSP! You will be able to transfer you files to the following popular devices and many more - Archos AV500, Archos AV700, Archos Gmini402, iriver PMP-100, Creative Zen Vision, PSP, Apple iPod, Apple iPhone, Apple TV, etc.

Try it now to experience your videos and your mobile device in a new way!

MP4-Converter is an ultimate user friendly tool that converts AVI to MP4, WMV to MP4 and MPEG to MP4, so you can easily enjoy your videos on iPod, iPhone, PSP, PS3, Apple TV, Xbox 360, Zune, iRiver PMP, Creative Zen Vision, Archos, etc. In addition you can convert to MP3, saving only the audio track in order to enjoy music on any portable device.

The extensive high definition support ensures that you stay on top of the technological edge and can watch your videos in greater detail. The output formats include MP4 , MP3 , M4A , AAC . These formats are compatible with any MP4 devices for your enjoyment.
Convert videos download from the internet and take them with you anywhere!

Use batch conversion mode to save time and convert_ your entire video library with one click!

More information you can find on the site: mp4-converter.info