Practically speaking, this is the fourth Magic: The Gathering set to launch in 2025 (or third, when you consider how MTG Innistrad Remastered was a reprint)
Sapphire Coils sales show how much dual-ink pressures curve planning
In short, it is the original, it is the one and what we are here to answer is whether or not this old dog is still worth your time, specifically in the digital age via the current adaptations of digital Magic the gathering known as MTG: Arena
And sure, you can use it defensively if you like
While pitching this and immediately returning it to play with Reanimate or Not Dead After All is backbreaking, Grief is also just a strong card on its own
While Phyrexian Vindicator could see play in casual or themed decks, it may not be a top choice for optimized competitive decks