A low initial mana cost, as well as a modest power level that makes it unlikely your opponents will target you early, combine to create a rock-solid commander
It was first introduced in 2010's Scars of Mirrodin MTG set, and its card list expanded further in releases like War of the Spark, Modern Horizons, and Phyrexia: All Will Be One
The cheapest versions are in the $10 range but thats on the back of very few copies entering circulation
Im not sure if cute Blood Artist stuff is better than Mono-Black God-Pharaohs Gift, but I think this deck takes better advantage of having all of its various engine pieces on the battlefield at the same time, so its at least more improved by Agadeems Awakening
How Many Game Changers Am I Allowed To Play
Blue's stealing effects are reduced