Don’t hold packages back.
If you are proficient you can disable the update nags - then simply wait it out until you know it is as stable as you want.
You can read my little essay on smart updating to see if some idea presents itself.
Most use Gnome for the simplicity - but Gnome breakage is not simple 
- although I am not a gamer - I am a former Gnome user - and I must say I have had a quiet life since.