Here, these are some Defenders that make me cringe less than others: The best Defender creatures are ones that support our tribe (Axebane Guardian), interact with the board in a meaningful way (Junktroller), bring some needed utility to the deck (Mnemonic Wall), or are super efficient beaters with extra bells and whistles (Wall of Denial)
This is something Magic would not do again till years later, with the Mirrodin block
Finally, almost 20 years later, were back in Lorwyn Eclipsed, and there are a few standout cards Im definitely going to be keeping an eye out when ripping into boosters
Cards like Genie, Power Unleashed will let you cast AWNW for free later in the game, while providing a body that can keep opposing characters in check
Not to mention is it only three mana, ideal for Sun Titan recursion