Of course statistics and comparative analysis are great tools but they dont always tell the whole truth, since many factors like synergy and combo pieces are hard to be measured numerically
Thirsting Roots Lay of the Land has never looked so good
Like most Magic: The Gathering cards, the value of Pithing Needle depends on a few consistent factors: its rarity, the printing and finish (regular or foil), its physical condition, and the set it was printed in (Innistrad: Midnight Hunt Promos)
Its a great payoff for exile-based decks like Prosper, Tome Bound and Faldorn, Dread Wolf Herald, or even just in decks loaded with cascade cards
Obelisk of Urd isn't really exciting when it hits only one creature, but +2/+2 is a sizable bonus, and even a few creatures receiving the bonus is enough for it to matter