So for proton you're in luck, Steam essentially sets the whole thing up. Unless you're running something really weird, you rarely need to interface with wine directly anymore. Check this out https://www.linuxjournal.com/content/introduction-linux-gaming-thanks-protondb

If you want a easier experience getting gaming stuff installed, I've heard Pop! OS is pretty beginner friendly and helps install various non-free software(free as in freedom, not beer). It should be really easy to get graphics drivers and steam installed.

If you opt for a more generic Linux distro like Ubuntu, you can still find a basic tutorial to get you going with everything. It all depends how much hands on stuff you're up for. When in doubt, google it out. Read up and if anything doesn't make sense, break the phrases down and google each one till you know whats going on.