Looking at OCG/TCG meta (which applies in Master Duel since it is what Master Duel is based on), I can guarantee people will flock back to DL in a few months.
Because OCG/TCG meta has become so nuts, people can stop the opponent from playing since turn 1. In Duel Links you at least still can play.
Also do you really think MD will remain as F2P as it is right now? Remember, it's also pretty much an F2P gacha game like DL.
Looking at how free gems are obtained, I already can see how hard getting more free gems in the future, that you'd be forced to buy gems to keep up with new meta stuff.
Yes, of course f2p will be back to duel links where their deck aren't even complete and doesn't own any updated staples rather than quit yugioh. It just make sense
Of course Master Duel will remain F2P. Konami literally have 3 games (MD, DL and that Switch Rush Duel Game) out with Cross Duels coming around the corner. Yes, gems will eventually be hard to get in MD, but still.
MD free to play? xdd Inhale the fresh pure copium brother/s. Even duellinks had tons of gems in the begining to bait everyone. Suuurre MD will be free and easy to get materials. I will beleive when i see it.
And? Craft system won't solve everything, you eventauly run out of craft materials and i bet the new Duel pass only be buyable with money. No pay? No material. Pure copium blindnd you i guess, but i don't believe in fairy tails. Konami will dry every f2p out of material soon and you will be crying like a b*tch.