Don't let this guy discourage you from trying it. I've been using Linux for over 20 years, and the Steam Deck is the most polished experience I've seen for gaming on Linux, even for non-Steam games. If you decide it's too limiting, you can just switch to something else.
The desktop environment is clunky at best and the default GUI is 100% proprietary. I own a Steam Deck and use it near daily in both modes. If that’s the most polished I shudder to think what you normally use. The other guy linked Nobara I think? From the home page it looks like a pretty decent option.
This is nonsense. The desktop environment is a secondary concern when it comes to building a console-like experience, and it being 100% proprietary does not mean it's not polished.
As far as I’ve been able to tell, OP is interested in an OS for their desktop or laptop, not steam deck, so desktop is likely a valid concern of theirs.
I agree the Steam Deck’s proprietary interface is decently polished.
No need to apologize, but thank you all the same. I remember back when compiz first came out and had a rotating cube desktop (virtual desktops). I kind of wish that stuff would make a comeback.
@notfromhere@greater_potater Gnome has the rotating cube desktop, burning windows and so on as extensions. Look up "rotating cube" and "burn my windows" in the extension page.
Or hear me out, Op is building something that would need ease of use or plug and play experience. A homemade Steam Machine would benefit from a Steam focused OS. You are just being an asshole.