I would recommend an adblocker. If your VPN supports proxy or you can make do without it. I recommend PersonalDNSFilter.

For launcher depending on personal preference I recommend Niagara Launcher or Smart Launcher 6.

For RSS feeds I recommend Feeder

For YT apart from Newpips, there’s Libretube and Tubular( a newpipe fork with sponsorblock and youtubedislike support).

For torrent Libretorrent or the basic but simple PikaTorrent. For games there’s Endless Sky, Shattered Pixel Dungeon.

For image editors there Image Toolbox

For note taking app I use Orgzly(revived), but you can try the ones like Open Note which are simpler.

For Lemmy clients there’s Voyager, Jerboa Both are fantastic, smooth and functional.

If you need recommendations for more categories of apps feel free to ask. The community will answer where it can.