Being based on Buster, you should at the very least be able to use and update any stable apps, and not have to worry about back porting, or using deprecated versions etc.
That’s my problem right now with using the current minimal image. it’s based on the SID bullseye, so I’m needing to back port a lot of features to get the stock Gameshell Launcher running.
Potentially look into @r043v’s custom image as well.
I’ll be the first one to mention that this DEOT image is far from being lightweight. This image is more for an OOB experience with everything set up.
Seeing as you’re not really wanting to use it for emulating/playing games, the above mentioned image could be another viable option, with customisable app launchers etc.
I hear you, re: limited time due to external factors!