Constable OdoHow it works & interactions with other cards

Versatile Investigative Tools

Constable Odo features a choice of two triggered abilities when it enters the battlefield. You must choose one mode: tapping a target creature an opponent controls and adding two stun counters, or investigating twice. Stun counters act as a powerful delay tactic, preventing a creature from untapping for its next two opportunities. Alternatively, investigating twice creates two Clue tokens, which are artifacts that can be sacrificed later for two mana each to draw a card.

Step-by-Step Resolution

When Constable Odo enters the battlefield, its ability is put on the stack. First, you must announce which mode you are choosing. If you choose the first mode, you must choose a legal target creature controlled by an opponent at that time. If you choose the second mode, no target is required. When the ability resolves, you either apply the stun counters to the target or create two Clue tokens. If the target of the first mode becomes illegal before resolution, the entire ability fails and nothing happens.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A common mistake is forgetting that stun counters replace the act of untapping. If a creature with a stun counter is targeted by an effect that says 'untap target creature,' the creature remains tapped and one stun counter is removed instead. Also, remember that Constable Odo's ability triggers only when it enters the battlefield; it does not trigger when it attacks or leaves the battlefield unless you have other effects enabling that.

Strategic Deployment

Choose the stun counters when your opponent has a single, large threat that is preventing you from attacking or threatening your life total. Choose the Investigate option if the board is relatively safe and you need to dig through your deck for your win conditions. Because Odo is a Detective, it also synergizes with other cards that care about that specific creature type.

Interaction examples

Doubling the Evidence

Constable OdoRoaming Throne

If you have Roaming Throne on the battlefield with 'Shapeshifter' or 'Detective' chosen, Constable Odo's ability triggers twice when it enters. You may choose different modes for each trigger, allowing you to tap two creatures and put stun counters on them, or investigate four times total.

Locking Down a Golem

Constable OdoSolemn Simulacrum

When Constable Odo enters, you can target an opponent's Solemn Simulacrum with the first mode. The Simulacrum will be tapped and receive two stun counters. During the opponent's next two untap steps, one stun counter will be removed each time instead of the creature untapping, keeping it out of combat for a significant duration.

Cycle of Clues

Constable OdoClue

By choosing the second mode, Constable Odo creates two Clue tokens. You can then pay two mana and sacrifice a Clue at any time you have priority to draw a card. This allows you to spread out your mana usage while Constable Odo remains on the battlefield as a blocker.