They can also be used in combination with the basic land types you already play
The constant lifegain triggers are the root of decks playing cards like Serra Ascendant, Voice of the Blessed, or Trelasarra, Moon Dancer
That is one of the secrets to Up the Beanstalks strength
As such, players might lean toward slower, more conservative gameplay
Or, you know, you could splash out $20 and grab yourself Gisela, the Broken Blade, who costs one more mana, nearly doubles the Thunder Bird's stats, is a legendary, and has Lifelink while also being a flying creature with first strike
If you want to take Yoshimaru in a different route, Tymna the Weaver or Vial Smasher the Fierce are interesting alternatives