Always glad for the updates. I did not have time to test the beta, so I am looking forward to playing with this.
As for having a standalone HTPC app, I don't see a reason to go there unless you intend to remove the functionality from GameEx. What makes you consider a doing a standalone and having to maintain the feature in two applications?
I have had an HTPC for about 10 years now and have tried many of the more popular front ends. I currently use WMC7 as a PVR and Emby as a Video/Movie front end. I find both to work well with only a few gripes. The most important feature I look for though is whether I think the wifey will be able to use it...critical in fact. Seams to be a common need.