While it didnt end up quite like that, they still decided to include the mechanic as we currently know it
they protect (protection from all colors, totem armor, hexproof), buff, and are efficient
(It cant be the target of spells or abilities.) Illustrated by Chris Rahn Standard Not Legal Alchemy Not Legal Pioneer Not Legal Historic Not Legal Modern Legal Brawl Not Legal Legacy Legal Comp
But Izzet is diverse, so in terms of the archetype she represents, I dont see her losing her place as the spells matter general of choice
See market price, set, edition, and rarity
Playing a commander that's just a one or two time mana generating cruise missile probably isn't for everyone, but I can see some merit for hyper aggressive strategies that want to set up fast and hard on turns 3-4 for a really stupid midgame power spike