I personally find the Axie gameplay a bit dull and predictable. There are plenty of similar / better upcoming games that will no doubt reduce the player base for Axie.
let's see what will come with the next update, seems like a lot will change
but reduce the playerbase? I don't think so, people can play more than one game.
I Think they have to care about the community and the players and have to pay for adventures. Many players are sad because of its stoppage. It is really hard that everyone win just by playing in the arena.