THE FINALS to get new kernel-based anti-cheat, devs say it will still work on Linux, SteamOS, Steam Deck

It's basically the only reason some games don't work on Linux. Proton works with just about every game.

CoD is best for avoiding getting thrashed due to skill curve because of population

Unfortunately it’s an inevitable wall for going into a game with an already established player pool

I play this game with the Steam Controller using motion controls and without aim assist, and do fine against mouse and aim assist players.

So this is a game that when you die isn't usually due to someone having much better reflexes and pixel perfect aiming than you. More game sense and good utilization of gadgets and specialization. Which to start off will be rough not knowing what everything does, but once you become familiar with it should become less of a problem.