Budget deck in Duel Links: how to build one without spending gems

To beat map duelists, the Gate and most events you do not need the top Ranked deck. You need a simple, consistent deck built with cards the game gives you for free.

Quick summary

The easiest cards to get come from character level rewards and events.
Build with 20 cards, the minimum: the deck becomes more predictable.
Spend gems only on what completes the deck. Random boxes without a plan are the fastest way to end up with nothing.

1. Decide what the deck is for

A farming deck and a PvP deck are different things. For farming, the goal is to beat the computer fast and almost every time, including with Auto-Duel. That calls for strong monsters and cards that work on their own, not expensive combos. It is the cheapest deck there is and the one that pays the most day to day.

2. Where to get cards without spending gems

Character levels: each character gives cards at specific levels. Open its screen and check the list before choosing who to level. See how to level up characters fast.
Events: almost every event gives cards as rewards, some only available there. Playing a little every day secures the final rewards.
Missions and stage rewards: many pay in cards or in items you can trade for cards.
Map duelists: each duelist has a list of cards they can drop when they lose. They are common, but many are useful in a farming deck.

3. Build with 20 cards

In Duel Links a deck has 20 to 30 cards. With 20, you draw your best cards more often and the deck is predictable. A starting point that works well against the computer:

12 to 14 monsters, almost all level 4 or lower, with the highest ATK you have.
4 to 6 spells that destroy monsters or boost ATK, without complicated conditions.
2 to 4 simple traps that work on the opponent's attack.

4. Test and change one card at a time

Play about 5 duels with the new deck. If you lose, see which card got stuck in your hand or was misused and replace only that one. Changing the whole deck at once hides what was working.

5. When gems are worth it

When you are missing a piece that changes the whole deck and you know which box it is in. Before opening, check the box list. To collect gems without spending money, see how to farm gems.

Deck ready? Put it to work

With a deck that wins on its own, DuelFarm duels on the map, at the Gate and in events for you, collects everything and never spends your gems.

Try it free Windows PC and the Steam version of Duel Links only. No sign-up, no card.