How can a card like Prism Ring possibly be good?  Life gain artifacts basically never are, especially post-new world order card design.  On first look, it doesn't look like that much of an upgrade - only one mana, but it doesn't count your opponent's spells.  However, when you combine it with a high velocity deck and a slower paced format, the potential of the deck can shine.  It may have been a flash in the pan, but what an odd flash it was.