Iirc Mint comes with many of the codecs, which could explain that.

In any case, I agree, the terminal certainly can be necessary at any rate and even if it isn't for a particular individual, it is powerful and good, and though daunting it is easier than it seems to become proficient enough if not a wizard. The angle shouldn't be "you'll never need it" but rather "it's way easier than it looks and you'll be fine. Here's a few basic tuts to get you started."