Back then, non-donation only have Forsaken Elite set. It didn't have freeze immunity and did not include a headgear, so you are stuck with only 1 slot headgears. Yet there were players that were able to go toe-to-toe with Full donation sets. Right now we have it easier because we have Vote Forsaken King set. No need for a non-donate PvP. Sure, Valkyrie weapons outdamages Legendary weapons, but not to the point that you can't contest.(Except for LK Pike [+50%] vs Ullrs [+200%] WTF?)
The biggest issue I see right now is that there's really nothing to sell for new players except Ygg Berries/Seeds because those who can afford to buy "rare" MVP cards(rich peeps/old players) already have them, and those that need them doesn't have enough token.