I think SelverOfDecrets has a similar mindset to where I'm coming from.

I think versus the majority of the field Mana Drain is respectable, but it's against other blue-based strategies where It can let you down.

The idea that against a Mentor/Pyro deck they can initiate from one card draw spell to the next, which develops into such an overwhelming advantage seems difficult for a Mana Drain to compete against.

Which spell are you suppose to Mana Drain?
How good are Preordain/Gush when you can't appropriately use them when having to leave mana open to possibly counter the 1 of 5 spells your opponent may cast.

This is where my difficulty lies.

Responses and feedback are appreciated, and encouraged.

I was hoping Vintage players could help clarify something for me.  I struggle understanding Mana Drain's role in Vintage.

I've had many years playing Blue decks in my Magic career, so I understand the card. Two mana Counterspell; that's great, but really... is it?

In a format of Spell Pierce, Flusterstorm, Force of Will etc., it seems incredibly slow, with the payoff being average, no?

I'm just trying to even understand what decks it slots into.  Recently I've taken to a Grixis list (Notion Thief, Dack, Jace, Time/Vault combo - with BDEV) with positive results, and I've had suggestions of "wow no Mana Drain?", or "you need to play Mana Drain". Is this because the norm in those lists are to play Mana Drain?

I've tried it and I'm just not really impressed with the card...

So as you can see I'm really trying to wrap my head around this one, and any advice or help would be greatly appreciated.

Edited title for clarity - Prospero