Author: General Ops

  • Collector’s Guide: Honchkrow V (Brilliant Stars #162)

    Honchkrow V Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Honchkrow V is a Rare Ultra card from the Brilliant Stars set, numbered 162. This Darkness-type Basic V has 200 HP, features the Ability Boss Pockets, and attacks with Fearsome Shadow for tactical disruption.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 162 Rare Ultra 200 zig
    • Type: Darkness
    • Stage: Basic, V
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Resistance: Fighting -30
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Rules: V rule applies—when this Pokémon V is Knocked Out, opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

    Key Printings

    The only known printing of Honchkrow V is from the Brilliant Stars expansion, card number 162. It is classified as a Rare Ultra, making it a desirable card for collectors focused on this set or Darkness-type Pokémon.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card.

    • Identifiers: set code swsh9-162, distinctive artwork by zig.
    • Distinguishing traits: the Ability Boss Pockets and the attack Fearsome Shadow.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown

    • Ability — Boss Pockets: Allows up to four Pokémon Tools to be attached, enabling flexible builds.
    • Attack — Fearsome Shadow: Costs two Darkness and one Colorless energy, deals significant damage, and reveals the opponent’s hand for strategic insight.
    • V rule: Opponent takes 2 Prize cards when Honchkrow V is Knocked Out.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Protect the card in a sleeve, keep it away from sunlight and moisture, and handle with clean hands. Given its Rare Ultra rarity, use a rigid top-loader or binder pages to prevent edge wear and surface scratches.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars: Honchkrow V debuts as a powerful Darkness-type Basic V with a unique Ability that enhances tool attachment flexibility and a high-damage attack that disrupts opponents’ strategies. This set highlights its strategic potential and striking design.

    Honchkrow V

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    Honchkrow V (Brilliant Stars) #162

  • Collector’s Guide: Zamazenta V (Brilliant Stars #163)

    Collector’s Guide: Zamazenta V (Brilliant Stars #163)

    Zamazenta V Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Zamazenta V from the Brilliant Stars set is a Rare Ultra card with 220 HP, featuring the ability Regal Stance and the attack Revenge Blast. This striking Basic V is numbered 163 in the set.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 163 Rare Ultra 220 Ayaka Yoshida
    • Type: Metal
    • Stage: Basic, V
    • Ability: Regal Stance — discard your hand and draw 5 cards, but your turn ends
    • Attack: Revenge Blast — 120+ damage, does 30 more damage for each Prize card opponent has taken
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Resistance: Grass -30
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Rules: V rule applies — when your Pokémon V is Knocked Out, opponent takes 2 Prize cards

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Zamazenta V is from the Brilliant Stars expansion, card number 163. This printing is a Rare Ultra rarity and is distinguished by its high HP and powerful ability and attack combination.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • No known print variants for this exact printing
    • Set code: swsh9-163
    • Regulation mark: F
    • Market reference query: “Zamazenta V Brilliant Stars 163.”
    • Image: /images/swsh9/swsh9-163.jpg

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. The V rule applies, meaning if Zamazenta V is Knocked Out, the opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s vibrant artwork and condition, store Zamazenta V in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use a rigid top loader or binder with individual pockets to prevent bending or surface damage.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Zamazenta V debuts as a powerful Basic V Pokémon with a unique hand-refreshing Ability and a damage-scaling attack, adding strategic depth to Metal-type decks.

    Zamazenta V (Brilliant Stars) #163

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    Zamazenta V (Brilliant Stars) #163

  • Collector’s Guide: Flygon V (Brilliant Stars #164)

    Collector’s Guide: Flygon V (Brilliant Stars #164)

    Flygon V Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Flygon V is a Rare Ultra card from the Brilliant Stars set, numbered 164. This vibrant Dragon-type Basic V has 220 HP and features the striking attack Draconic Impulse. Its dynamic PLANETA Mochizuki artwork makes it a notable addition for collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 164 Rare Ultra 220 PLANETA Mochizuki
    • Card Number: 164
    • Type: Dragon
    • Stage: Basic, V
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Set Code: swsh9
    • Series: Sword & Shield
    • Weaknesses: None listed
    • Resistances: None listed

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the single known printing of Flygon V from the Brilliant Stars expansion. It is a Rare Ultra card, notable for its high HP and two attacks:
    – Sand Spray — 70 damage
    – Draconic Impulse — 160+ damage with an additional effect against Pokémon VMAX

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward by its set code (swsh9), card number (164), and the illustrator PLANETA Mochizuki’s distinctive artwork. The card’s subtype is Basic V, and it carries the regulation mark F.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • The card follows the V rule: when your Pokémon V is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.
    • It is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vivid artwork and maintain condition, store Flygon V in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Rare Ultra rarity, consider a top loader or a binder with individual pockets for added protection.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Flygon V debuts as a powerful Dragon-type Basic V with strong attacks and a high HP pool. It stands out for its synergy against Pokémon VMAX and its striking PLANETA Mochizuki illustration.

    Flygon V (Brilliant Stars) #164

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    Flygon V (Brilliant Stars) #164

  • Collector’s Guide: Arceus V (Brilliant Stars #165)

    Arceus V Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Arceus V from the Brilliant Stars set is a Rare Ultra card numbered 165. This striking card features 220 HP and a powerful attack called Power Edge. Its design captures the essence of this legendary Pokémon with vivid detail.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 165 Rare Ultra 220 N-DESIGN Inc.
    • Pokémon: Arceus V
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic, V
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Set Code: swsh9-165
    • Rules: V rule: When your Pokémon V is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Arceus V appears in the Brilliant Stars expansion of the Sword & Shield series. It is identified as card number 165, classified as a Rare Ultra, and illustrated by N-DESIGN Inc., known for clean, detailed artwork.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include the set code “swsh9-165,” the regulation mark “F,” and the absence of any abilities. The card’s two attacks are “Trinity Charge,” which allows attachment of up to three basic Energy cards from the deck, and “Power Edge,” which deals 130 damage.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. It follows the standard V rule where knocking out this Pokémon V grants the opponent two Prize cards.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s Rare Ultra quality and detailed artwork, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets to prevent bending or surface damage. Handle with clean hands or gloves to maintain its pristine condition.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars: Introduced Arceus V as a powerful Basic V card with energy acceleration capabilities and high damage output, enhancing the strategic options for Colorless-type decks. The set is noted for its high-quality Rare Ultra cards with striking artwork by N-DESIGN Inc.

    Arceus V

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    Arceus V (Brilliant Stars) #165

  • Collector’s Guide: Arceus V (Brilliant Stars #166)

    Arceus V Collector’s Guide: Brilliant Stars #166

    Character Intro

    Arceus V from the Brilliant Stars set is a Rare Ultra card numbered 166. This powerful Pokémon boasts 220 HP and features the striking attack Power Edge. Its sleek design captures the essence of this legendary figure in the Pokémon universe.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 166 Rare Ultra 220 kawayoo
    • Pokémon: Arceus V
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic, V
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Set Code: swsh9
    • Series: Sword & Shield
    • Rules: V rule applies — when knocked out, opponent takes 2 Prize cards

    Key Printings

    This printing of Arceus V is from Brilliant Stars, identified as card number 166. It is a Rare Ultra card with a clean, dynamic illustration by kawayoo.

    Attacks

    • “Trinity Charge” — search and attach up to 3 basic Energy cards to your Pokémon V.
    • “Power Edge” — 130 damage.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Arceus V card. Key identifiers include:
    – Set code: “swsh9”
    – Regulation mark: “F”
    – No abilities present
    – Artwork and layout consistent with the Brilliant Stars set style

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. It follows the Pokémon V rule, where the opponent takes 2 Prize cards if this Pokémon V is knocked out.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s vibrant artwork and condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets to prevent bending or surface scratches. Handle the card with clean hands to avoid oils and dirt.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Introduced Arceus V as a powerful Basic Pokémon V with energy acceleration and strong damage potential, aligning with the set’s dynamic, visually striking Pokémon V theme.

    Arceus V

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    Arceus V (Brilliant Stars) #166

  • Collector’s Guide: Cheren’s Care (Brilliant Stars #168)

    Collector’s Guide: Cheren’s Care (Brilliant Stars #168)

    Cheren’s Care Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Cheren’s Care is a Rare Ultra card from the Brilliant Stars set, numbered 168. With distinctive artwork, it stands out in the set and is a notable pickup for Brilliant Stars-focused collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 168 Rare Ultra Ryuta Fuse
    • Card Number: 168
    • Card Type: Supporter
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Series: Sword & Shield
    • Subtypes: Supporter
    • Pokémon: Cheren’s Care
    • Evolves From: None
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks: None
    • Weaknesses: None
    • Resistances: None

    Key Printings

    Cheren’s Care appears exclusively in the Brilliant Stars set (set code swsh9). This printing is notable for its Rare Ultra status and distinctive artwork by Ryuta Fuse.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by set number 168, rarity as Rare Ultra, and regulation mark F. The card’s image is accessible at /images/swsh9/swsh9-168.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown

    The card’s rules text allows you to return one of your damaged Colorless Pokémon and all attached cards to your hand, with the restriction of playing only one Supporter card per turn. It is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the Rare Ultra finish and detailed artwork by Ryuta Fuse, store the card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching to maintain its collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Cheren’s Care debuts as a Supporter card with unique gameplay utility and Rare Ultra rarity, enhancing the set’s diverse strategic options.

    Cheren's Care (Brilliant Stars) #168

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    Cheren's Care (Brilliant Stars) #168

  • Collector’s Guide: Shaymin VSTAR (Brilliant Stars #173)

    Shaymin VSTAR Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Shaymin VSTAR from the Brilliant Stars set is a Rare Rainbow card numbered 173. This Grass-type VSTAR has 250 HP and features the VSTAR Power Star Bloom. Its attack, Revenge Blast, adds a dynamic edge to gameplay.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 173 Rare Rainbow 250 5ban Graphics
    • Card ID: swsh9-173
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: VSTAR
    • Evolves From: Shaymin V
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Rules: VSTAR rule: When your Pokémon VSTAR is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Shaymin VSTAR is from the Brilliant Stars set, identified as card number 173. It is a Rare Rainbow card, known for its vivid foil treatment and high HP, making it a visually appealing and robust card for collectors.

    Variants & Identifiers

    This specific printing does not have any known print variants. It is identified by its set code swsh9 and the unique card number 173. The card’s artwork by 5ban Graphics and its Rare Rainbow rarity further distinguish it.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown

    • VSTAR Power — Star Bloom: Heal 120 damage from each of your Benched Grass Pokémon once per game.
    • Attack — Revenge Blast: 120+ damage, increasing by 40 for each Prize card your opponent has taken.
    • Note the VSTAR rule: if this Pokémon is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vivid foil and intricate artwork of this Rare Rainbow card, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use rigid top loaders or binders with individual pockets to prevent bending or surface scratches. Handle the card by its edges to maintain its pristine condition.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars: Introduced Shaymin VSTAR as a powerful Grass-type VSTAR card with healing capabilities and a scaling attack, packaged in a Rare Rainbow foil that appeals to collectors and players alike.

    Shaymin VSTAR

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    Shaymin VSTAR (Brilliant Stars) #173

  • Collector’s Guide: Charizard VSTAR (Brilliant Stars #174)

    Collector’s Guide: Charizard VSTAR (Brilliant Stars #174)

    Charizard VSTAR Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Charizard VSTAR from the Brilliant Stars set is a Rare Rainbow card numbered 174. With a formidable 280 HP and the powerful attack Star Blaze, this vibrant printing is a standout for collectors seeking dynamic, high-impact Charizard cards.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 174 Rare Rainbow 280 5ban Graphics
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: VSTAR
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Evolves From: Charizard V
    • Rules: VSTAR rule: When your Pokémon VSTAR is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Sword & Shield Brilliant Stars expansion, identified by set code swsh9-174. It is a Rare Rainbow variant, featuring a shimmering foil treatment that enhances its visual appeal.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include:
    – Card number 174 in the Brilliant Stars set
    – Rare Rainbow rarity
    – Illustrator: 5ban Graphics
    – Image reference: /images/swsh9/swsh9-174.jpg

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown

    Attacks

    • Explosive Fire: Deals 130 damage, plus an additional 100 if this Pokémon has damage counters on it.
    • Star Blaze: A VSTAR Power attack dealing 320 damage that requires discarding 2 Energy.

    VSTAR Rule

    The VSTAR rule applies: if this Pokémon is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the Rare Rainbow foil finish and maintain value, store the card in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets to prevent bending or surface scratches.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): This set introduces Charizard VSTAR as a high-HP, high-damage Fire-type VSTAR card with a visually stunning Rare Rainbow variant. It is a key collectible for fans of Charizard and the Sword & Shield series.
    • Other Sets: Unknown for this specific printing.

    Charizard VSTAR (Brilliant Stars) #174

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    Charizard VSTAR (Brilliant Stars) #174

  • Collector’s Guide: Whimsicott VSTAR (Brilliant Stars #175)

    Collector’s Guide: Whimsicott VSTAR (Brilliant Stars #175)

    Whimsicott VSTAR Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Whimsicott VSTAR from the Brilliant Stars set is a Rare Rainbow card numbered 175. This vibrant Pokémon boasts 250 HP and features the dynamic attack Trick Wind. Its striking design and powerful stats make it a notable addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 175 Rare Rainbow 250 5ban Graphics
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: VSTAR
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Metal ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Rules: VSTAR rule applies – when knocked out, opponent takes 2 Prize cards

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Whimsicott VSTAR is from the Brilliant Stars expansion (set code swsh9), numbered 175. This printing is a Rare Rainbow variant, known for its shimmering foil treatment that enhances the card’s visual appeal.

    Variants & Identifiers

    This card has no known print variants. It can be identified by its unique card number (175), Rare Rainbow rarity, and the illustrator credit to 5ban Graphics. The Psychic type and VSTAR subtype further distinguish it within the Brilliant Stars set.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality

    Legality: unknown

    Play Notes

    Whimsicott VSTAR features two attacks: “Trick Wind,” which prevents opponents from playing Pokémon Tool or Special Energy cards during their next turn, and “Fluffball Star,” a VSTAR Power that deals damage based on the Energy attached to Whimsicott VSTAR. The VSTAR rule means that knocking out this Pokémon awards the opponent two Prize cards, a critical strategic consideration.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s Rare Rainbow foil finish and maintain its value, store Whimsicott VSTAR in a protective sleeve and keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid bending or scratching the card by using rigid top loaders or binders designed for premium cards.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Whimsicott VSTAR debuts as a powerful Psychic-type VSTAR card with strong attacks and a high HP pool, packaged in a visually stunning Rare Rainbow foil variant. This set highlights its strategic utility and collector appeal.

    Whimsicott VSTAR (Brilliant Stars) #175

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    Whimsicott VSTAR (Brilliant Stars) #175

  • Collector’s Guide: Arceus VSTAR (Brilliant Stars #176)

    Arceus VSTAR Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Arceus VSTAR from the Brilliant Stars set is a Rare Rainbow card numbered 176. This Colorless-type VSTAR boasts 280 HP and the ability Starbirth. Its powerful attack, Trinity Nova, further elevates its presence in any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 176 Rare Rainbow 280 5ban Graphics
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: VSTAR
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Evolves From: Arceus V

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Arceus VSTAR appears in the Brilliant Stars set as card number 176. It is a Rare Rainbow rarity, making it a visually distinctive and collectible card within the set.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include its set code “swsh9” and the regulation mark “F.” The card’s unique VSTAR subtype and its powerful ability “Starbirth” distinguish it from other Arceus cards.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    – VSTAR rule: When your Pokémon VSTAR is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.
    – Ability “Starbirth” allows searching your deck for up to 2 cards once per game.
    – Attack “Trinity Nova” deals 200 damage and attaches up to 3 basic Energy cards from your deck to your Pokémon V.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve this Rare Rainbow card’s vibrant artwork and condition, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets to prevent bending or surface scratches.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars: Features Arceus VSTAR as a powerful Colorless-type VSTAR card with a high HP and impactful abilities, adding strategic depth and visual appeal to the set.

    Arceus VSTAR

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    Arceus VSTAR (Brilliant Stars) #176