Other great apps like Windows Media Player are MPC-HC (Free, Open Source), foobar2000 (Free), MPV (Free, Open Source) and AIMP (Free).
The best alternative is VLC Media Player, which is both free and Open Source. The app looks nice and it's the cherry on top of a long, long-awaited overhaul of Windows Media Player. Most alternatives are Audio and Media Players. Of course, the Media Player design reflects the clean aesthetic of Windows 11. You'll still be able to access the old version of Windows Media Player through Windows Tools. Media Player currently has a couple of issues, Microsoft notes, including ones that affect playback from some network locations, editing album metadata and library content with accented characters. Microsoft says those include "improved keyboard shortcut and access key support for keyboard users and with other assistive technologies." There are accessibility-focused options in the app too. Through the settings, users can tell Media Player where else to look for things to bring to the library. The app will add files from your PC's music and video folders too.
During playback, you'll see album art and "rich artist imagery" in both full screen and mini-player modes. Microsoft says users will be able to quickly browse their library to find what they want to listen to, and create and manage playlists.