Whether it was overwhelming the opponent with their effects or strength (Dark Counterparts), synergizing it with other combinations of cards (Darzorcs), or protecting them with protection over protection (Craglords), the beatstick was something seen everywhere as the central focus of said format
9 Child-Like Wonder: Phanpy (Lost Thunder #111) Phanpys endearing appearance is similar to an elephant calf, and Ito recreates this well in yarn
Even if you want to just tap it for mana your opponent will have to respect the fact that you could smack them and will have to play accordingly
Returning a big card draw spell like Glimmer of Genius or Treasure Cruise could be great, and even getting back a card like Fatal Push or Remand could serve you well if the situation required it
This one will cost you $296 on TCGPlayer
As for the thinking behind skipping Gen 2 and Gen 3, for now at least, the popularity of Gen 4 might suggest why that's where Pokemon is potentially headed next