When I got the mini 4, I found it to be the perfect size for touchscreen gaming. Notably bigger display than a smartphone but still easy enough to use touchscreen controls. 😂
I wouldn’t want to play something like Genshin Impact on 9.7” or bigger iPads without controller either.
I mostly use the 9.7”+ iPads in landscape with the case cover acting as stand with majority of the weight on my tummy, legs or pillow. I just support it a bit via the edges with the occasional tap/swipe to turn pages. 🙂