Will Bazzite's immutable setup get in the way of gaming and server control?

Bazzite doesn't reset everything when you reboot. The distinction is that the base OS is managed as an image rather than treated like a conventional system where you freely modify every system directory. Your files and normal configuration changes aren't simply wiped on restart.

You can still install and use software, but you may need to think about where it belongs. Flatpaks and containers are common options, and Distrobox can provide an environment for tools that expect a more conventional Linux installation. That different workflow is the main adjustment, not a blanket ban on tinkering.

For gaming, the attraction is mostly convenience. Bazzite brings together gaming-oriented software and setup choices, and offers a Game Mode for a console-like interface. Mint and Fedora can run games too, so it isn't that games are exclusive to Bazzite.

If you're already comfortable installing Steam and configuring Proton, the difference may feel less dramatic. Check the games and launchers you actually use rather than choosing solely on the distro's gaming label.

Remote control of a home server is a different question from hosting services on the gaming PC itself. The latter can involve boot-time services, permissions, and software that expects to modify the host. Those jobs may take more figuring out on an image-based system.

For example, setting up a media server to start at boot has been a sticking point in this kind of setup. Containers are an option, but check how your particular service needs to access files and devices before assuming it'll be straightforward.

Watch out for integrations between apps, especially when one is sandboxed. A browser extension trying to talk to a password manager outside a Flatpak can be awkward. That's not necessarily impossible to solve, but it's worth checking your specific apps and permissions rather than assuming they'll connect automatically.

Wine bottles and VMs aren't ruled out by the immutable base. Still, test the particular Windows programs you need, since their compatibility is a separate issue from the distro's system layout.

If frequent host-level changes are a big part of the fun for you, a conventional Fedora or Mint installation may be simpler to experiment with. If the gaming setup and image-based approach appeal to you, Bazzite is worth trying. Keep backups either way.