DVDs as a video playable format (DVD-R or DVD+R) need to have mpeg2 video 525 (NTSC) or 625 (PAL) lines, Dolby AC-3 or PCM audio. Upon conclusion of the recording the disc needs to be finalized by the recorder to be interchangeable with other DVD players in computers or stand alone players.
DVD-R or +R could also be used for data recording, which could include HD video sizes and bit rates, VLC player could likely play those files.