Yes unfortunately PDF is the leading format for a fully compiled article. R is fantastic with graphics or visuals, then the article is written via whatever org preferences. They are combined, and in the case of formal research orgs it'll also go through a styling. So that'll format everything from the text to the coloring of the graphics. The PDF is typically the final draft output, just because it's less changeable.
I will say, even though it is not official, it's kind of part of the work that most overlook it 😅 When done in it's polished form, it intimidates folks and that's by design. There are ways to communicate these insights to broader audiences but there is no profit in that. But I'm open to making things more open... 🤑