I recall, at one point, seeing masses of people posting the infamous "caw-blade" deck format. While it was one of the best decks at the time (I believe I recall reading that 12 of the tourney runners were using some format of it or another), I think it really saw more than it shoudl have on this site. Now that the damnable hawks have cycled out, caw-blade is suddenly looking like 'spirit-blade'. This disturbs me.
This deck uses some of the ideas that spirit-blade frequenters like (such as the incorrigible Stalker), but incorporates it into an useful control format with an inexpensive base. Instead of the swords (which cost a whopping 23-30$ USD), I opted for something I think every control deck should have as a variable win condition now: Runechanter's Pike. Considering how many dig spells, kill spells, and counters a typical control deck spits out, it's about time we have a card that monopolizes on all those lost assets. At a tiny 1$ USD (if even), it gives Blue another kill option OTHER than the 'Goyf.
Naturally, the main issue with this deck is making sure you get the Pike. While a full playset definitely helps, some digging also benefits here. Ponder helps here, but so does Delver of Secrets. Delver goes so far as to help on two levels here: top-decks to check for possible counters early-to-mid-game, as well as a search for your holy grail (keep in mind, you don't have to flip the Delver if you don't want to: only if you choose to reveal the spell do you have to flip him). Typically, though, you'll either be waiting for it to come through, all the while happily storing spells in your graveyard for later use, or holding it for when the time is right.
Uses of other cards:
Fiend Hunter - O-ring on a stick. Free blocker as well.
Spectral Rider - In case you don't get a Stalker
Midnight Haunting - Fulfills same purpose as above, as well a chump blockers
Rebuke - In case you need to off a particularly annoying attacker (i.e. A Furor-ridden vampire or other critter)
As usual, all questions and comments are always welcome, and I try to get back to them within an eight hour period. (As of late, the comments on my decks have steadily gotten smaller and smaller. Not sure on the reasoning for this, but guessing it's because of my timing, being on 3rd shift schedule) Also, feel free to make suggestions on cards, seeing as I can always use them.
Side note: My sideboard is fairly bare. Suggestions for that are also welcome.