It was the echo experiment that got them to the idea that you could steal a creature of any mana value but only got to keep it if you were able to pay the energy cost
Those decks can draw an endless stream of cards, so in a Necordominance strategy you'll usually be able to exile one of your own spells to play Force of Despair for free
Though it isn't the best card, its healing buff ability and high HP can create a great distraction for opponents and also can keep Venusaur on the table for quite a while
While only having 130 HP, which is low compared to most ex cards, it has a Genome Hacking attack, which can potentially take out anyone in one go
It seems the new normal requires players to be more deliberate than ever to find their own joy in the hobby, whether thats by buying singles, brewing budget decks, or simply appreciating the magic of the cards they already own.