It works but they pressure you hard nowadays to create an account when you use the app the first time. An account that you don't need if you have no Hue bridge. They once had a Bluetooth only app without all of these privacy invasion shenanigans.
They already made it pretty complicated to use the Hue app without an account if you just want to control Bluetooth enabled lights without a bridge.
I use kruler in KDE.
Yes, just buy a Steamdeck. This "controller" should cost less than $150 to make it worthwhile.
The atmosphere was great but the gameplay just mediocre. I still got the DVD release somewhere around here.
I also have a laptop from Tuxedo. It works fine and is maintainable but had a swollen battery after about 3 years. They are using barebone laptops that you may be able to order from Asia yourself.