Chakram RetrieverHow it works & interactions with other cards

How the Partner Ability Works

When Chakram Retriever enters the battlefield, its 'Partner with' ability triggers. You choose a target player, and that player may search their library for the card specifically named Chakram Slinger, reveal it, put it into their hand, and then shuffle. This ensures that you always have access to the other half of this dynamic duo as long as it is still in your deck.

The Untap Engine

The second ability is a powerful triggered ability that fires whenever you cast a spell during your turn. Note that this trigger goes on the stack on top of the spell you just cast, meaning the target creature will untap before the spell that triggered the ability actually resolves. This can be used to untap Chakram Retriever itself or any other creature you control that has a powerful tap ability.

Common Mistakes

A common point of confusion is when the untap happens. Because it triggers upon 'casting' a spell, the untap occurs immediately after you pay the costs for your spell, but before your opponents have to decide if they want to counter that spell. Also, remember that this ability only triggers during your turn; casting an Instant on an opponent's turn will not trigger the untap effect. Finally, even though it has 'Partner with,' Chakram Retriever is not a legendary creature and cannot be your Commander unless your playgroup uses house rules.

When to Play It

Chakram Retriever is best utilized in decks that want to activate creature abilities multiple times per turn. By sequencing your spells correctly, you can use a creature's tap ability, cast a spell to untap it with the Retriever, and then use that creature's ability again before your original spell even finishes resolving.

Interaction examples

The Slinger Combo

Chakram Slinger

With both creatures on the battlefield, you can tap Chakram Slinger and pay one Red mana to deal 2 damage to an opponent. While that damage is on the stack, cast any spell from your hand. Chakram Retriever triggers, untapping Chakram Slinger. You can now tap the Slinger again in response to your own spell to deal another 2 damage!

Doubling the Dog

Roaming Throne

If Roaming Throne enters the battlefield and you choose 'Elemental' or 'Dog,' it will affect Chakram Retriever. When you cast a spell during your turn, Chakram Retriever's ability will trigger twice instead of once. This allows you to untap two different creatures or the same creature twice (though the second untap usually won't do much unless you tap the creature in between the two resolutions).

Ramping with the Retriever

Solemn Simulacrum

When you cast Solemn Simulacrum during your turn while Chakram Retriever is out, the Retriever's untap ability triggers and goes on the stack. You can target any creature you control to untap it. After the untap resolves, the Solemn Simulacrum spell will then resolve and enter the battlefield, triggering its own ability to find you a basic land.