Except that it's functionally a longsword, as it has the same threat range and damage. Weilded two-handed, it's a martial weapon.
Before, a Halfling could weild a longsword two-handed for the same results. The exact same results. The only thing you've gained is the ability to weild it...
Biological warfare. One country developed a bacterium that would break down polymers as food, thus destroying modern technology.
Okay, so technically I stole it from the DC comic "Birds of Prey", but it's a good concept for putting someone back into the stone age.
Considering the nature of the changes (errata, fan feedback, and balance issues), I doubt there'll be that much playtesting.
I could be wrong. Was any playtesting done on SWD20Rev?
Personally, I think the benefit to d6 based resolution such as GURPS, In Nomine, LotR, etc. lies not in statistical geekery, but the ability to get the dice at almost any store or, failing that, swipe them from your little brother's Monopoly set.
Have you purchased any S&S books other than the monster books? I think you have a bit of a limited sample. Most of the more recent Scarred Lands products have excellent art, as does the entire Ravenloft line.
I'd say compatibility with the present nomenclature was not a concern. I'd also say that even if they weren't insisting on "first edition feel", they may not have had leeway in how to name these monsters.