Or maybe I just run the mainline kernel in the cases I need it.

Yep, been gaming on Ubuntu for decades. Zero issue. Occasionally have to do a thing, but it’s Linux, so you know; everything is always do able.

Only thing that matters is that you realize, none of it’s permanent. Getting your feet wet for a few weeks working from a live USB is okay too. Go as fast or as slow as you want. People get stuck on “The Paradox of Choice”.

I only recommend what I’m willing to support. Can’t recommend distros I would never use.

https://xon.sh/

Then you’ll know Python. Something companies hire for.

Are they waiting for Slackware 5.0 to release finally?

Yep, you learn how to get things done. If your goal is to use something that’s strictly for Windows, then probably you should be using Windows. Same as MacOS, same as Linux, and same as any other OS out there. Same things could be said for touch screen vs. MnK vs. controller.

Probably just the recent converts that are still 1 foot in and 1 foot out. I don’t keep a Windows VM. If something ever came up over the years, I have to decide if it’s worth setting up a VM. I think even 3 years back, I was able to update my PS5 controller loading up the update tool in WINE (Bottles). Didn’t even need a Windows VM then.