I never denied Mint. definitely recommend it too. Although for gaming I had a lot of issues. I am definitelt not an expert by any means, so I would also put my hat in to say cachyos with kde plasma as the desktop environment is pretty beginner friendly. I understand the arch way is difficult, but in my ignorant (as I dont know linux terminal talk too well) perspective, i think kde plasma on cachyos is a good option to look into at the least. ‘A terrible suggestion’ feels a slight stretch. It isn’t too complicated, im saying this as a beginner