Thanks to all for your input. I'll keep grinding along and research the options and suggestions y'all gave. I just wish the Android eco-system (including GooglePlay and FDroid) would make things (publishing) easier for apps and games that don't require any permissions... Am I missing something?
I'm developing apps that require 0 permissions, collect no info, and can be run in Airplane mode yet everywhere I look it seems I have to jump thru hoops to get a simple, innocuous game or app published on any site that has a presence. I guess I'm naive.
Is it all the hoops to get your apps listed in the official F-Droid repository? I know they're a little strict (which I'm fine with), so you can try getting them listed on the IzzyOnDroid repository[0]. Not an Android developer myself, but that repo is easier to get added to than the F-Droid ones from what I've seen. Only caveat is that users will have to add the repo to the F-Droid app to find your app.
Edit: just read up further on their non-acceptable categories[1] and games are not usually added.
I've started using /e/OS (degoogled android fork) a few days ago and so far my experience has been fantastic. The "App Lounge" has all Apps from the official Play Store, plus all the apps from F-Droid. I can install apps anonymously or, if needed, login with my google account to get access to my purchased apps.