There’s not really a simple way to make a VM setup permanent. You could try it out in a VM, and then use a backup tool to save your home directory and system configuration to transfer your settings to a “real” hard drive installation.

I’m a big fan of my 8bitdo gamepads. They have 2.4ghz USB ones that work really well on Linux (steam deck or desktop).

I have the Ultimate 2C Wireless Controller

And I paid about 25€ for it. My other main gamepad is an old google stadia controller which also works really well.