Author: General Ops

  • Collector’s Guide: Marnie’s Pride (Brilliant Stars #171)

    Collector’s Guide: Marnie’s Pride (Brilliant Stars #171)

    Marnie’s Pride Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Marnie’s Pride is a Rare Ultra Supporter from the Brilliant Stars set, numbered 171. Its striking design captures Marnie’s personality with vivid detail, making it a standout for Brilliant Stars-focused collections.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 171 Rare Ultra Souichirou Gunjima
    • Card Number: 171
    • Set Code: swsh9
    • Card Type: Supporter
    • Stage: Supporter
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Abilities/Attacks: None
    • Weaknesses/Resistances: None
    • Rules Text: Attach a basic Energy card from your discard pile to 1 of your Benched Pokémon. You may play only 1 Supporter card during your turn.

    Key Printings

    Marnie’s Pride appears exclusively in Brilliant Stars as card number 171. It is printed as a Rare Ultra variant, a desirable slot for collectors targeting high-rarity Sword & Shield cards.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No known print variants exist. It is identified by set code “swsh9” and regulation mark “F.” The official market reference query is “Marnie’s Pride Brilliant Stars 171.”

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. It functions as a Supporter with a useful energy-retrieval effect, attaching a basic Energy from the discard pile to a Benched Pokémon.

    Care & Storage Tips

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

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Marnie’s Pride debuts as a Rare Ultra Supporter with a unique energy-recovery effect and a striking illustration by Souichirou Gunjima. No other sets or reprints are currently known.

    Marnie's Pride (Brilliant Stars) #171

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    Marnie's Pride (Brilliant Stars) #171

  • Collector’s Guide: Roseanne’s Backup (Brilliant Stars #172)

    Roseanne’s Backup Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Roseanne’s Backup is a Rare Ultra Supporter from the Brilliant Stars set, numbered 172. With striking artwork by kirisAki, it’s a notable pickup for collectors seeking a clean, visually appealing Supporter.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 172 Rare Ultra kirisAki
    • Card ID: swsh9-172
    • Stage: Supporter
    • Subtype: Supporter
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Types: None
    • Weaknesses: None
    • Resistances: None
    • Evolves From: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown

    Key Printings

    Printed exclusively in the Brilliant Stars set under the Sword & Shield series, this card is identified as number 172 with Rare Ultra rarity. The kirisAki artwork is unique to this printing.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants. It is identified by set code “swsh9” and regulation mark “F.” The card’s lack of HP and types makes it distinct among Supporter cards.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown

    This Supporter card allows you to choose one or more of the following effects:
    – Shuffle a Pokémon from your discard pile back into your deck.
    – Shuffle a Pokémon Tool card from your discard pile back into your deck.
    – Shuffle a Stadium card from your discard pile back into your deck.
    – Shuffle an Energy card from your discard pile back into your deck.

    You may play only one Supporter card during your turn.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store in a protective sleeve away from sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity, consider a top-loader or a binder with individual pockets for optimal protection.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars: Introduced Roseanne’s Backup as a Rare Ultra Supporter with unique kirisAki artwork, aligning with the set’s emphasis on versatile Supporter effects.

    Roseanne's Backup

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    Roseanne's Backup (Brilliant Stars) #172

  • 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

  • Collector’s Guide: Cheren’s Care (Brilliant Stars #177)

    Cheren’s Care Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Cheren’s Care is a Rare Rainbow Supporter from Brilliant Stars, numbered 177. Its vibrant, rainbow finish by Ryuta Fuse captures Cheren’s essence and makes it a distinctive target for collectors of high-rarity Trainer cards.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 177 Rare Rainbow Ryuta Fuse
    • Card Name: Cheren’s Care
    • Card Number: 177
    • Set: Brilliant Stars (swsh9)
    • Type: Supporter
    • Stage: Supporter
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Illustrator: Ryuta Fuse
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    Cheren’s Care appears exclusively in Brilliant Stars as card 177. This single printing is the Rare Rainbow variant, prized for its striking finish and collector appeal among Supporter cards.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants. It is identified as swsh9-177 with a Rare Rainbow rarity. The regulation mark F denotes its tournament-era classification.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown

    Cheren’s Care lets you return one of your damaged Colorless Pokémon and all attached cards to your hand, enabling a tactical reset. As with all Supporters, you may play only one Supporter card during your turn.

    Care & Storage Tips

    • Use a fitted sleeve to protect the rainbow finish and surface texture.
    • Store away from sunlight and moisture to prevent fading and warping.
    • For long-term storage or transport, consider a top-loader or rigid case.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Debuts as a Rare Rainbow Supporter featuring a healing-style recovery effect and eye-catching artwork. The set’s vibrant design philosophy helps this card stand out for both rarity and utility.

    This guide covers all known details for Cheren’s Care from the provided data. Additional information such as release date and flavor text remains unknown.

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    Cheren's Care (Brilliant Stars) #177

  • Collector’s Guide: Kindler (Brilliant Stars #179)

    Kindler Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Kindler is a Rare Rainbow card from the Brilliant Stars set, numbered 179. Its vibrant design makes it a distinctive addition for collectors focusing on this series. Despite the lack of specified HP, ability, or attack details, its rarity and set placement highlight its appeal.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 179 Rare Rainbow Hitoshi Ariga
    • Card ID: swsh9-179
    • Stage: Supporter
    • Subtype: Supporter
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Evolves From: None
    • Types: None
    • Weaknesses: None
    • Resistances: None

    Key Printings

    Kindler appears exclusively as card number 179 in the Brilliant Stars set. It is printed as a Rare Rainbow variant, making it a visually appealing and collectible piece for fans of the Sword & Shield series.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • No known print variants
    • Set code: “swsh9”
    • Card number: 179
    • Illustrator: Hitoshi Ariga

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown

    Rules on the card specify: “You can use this card only if you discard a Fire Energy card from your hand. Look at the top 7 cards of your deck and put up to 2 of them into your hand. Shuffle the other cards back into your deck. | You may play only 1 Supporter card during your turn.”

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s rare Rainbow finish and detailed artwork, store Kindler in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use a rigid top-loader or binder with individual pockets to prevent bending or surface scratches.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Kindler debuts as a Rare Rainbow Supporter card, adding strategic depth with its energy discard and deck search mechanic. This set is known for its colorful and dynamic cards, with Kindler standing out due to its unique effect and striking illustration.

    Kindler

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    Kindler (Brilliant Stars) #179

  • Collector’s Guide: Galarian Moltres V (Brilliant Stars #183)

    Galarian Moltres V Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Galarian Moltres V from the Brilliant Stars set boasts a striking 220 HP. This Rare Secret, card number 183, highlights the ability Direflame Wings and the attack Aura Burn—combining standout design with strong strategic potential.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 183 Rare Secret 220 akyCG Works
    • Type: Darkness
    • Stage: Basic V
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Regulation Mark: E
    • Rules: V rule applies—when your Pokémon V is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

    Key Printings

    The key printing is the Brilliant Stars version identified by swsh9-183. As a rare secret card, it’s a desirable target for collectors of high-rarity Sword & Shield era cards.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No known print variants. Identify it by the set code swsh9, card number 183, and artwork by akyCG Works. Its Darkness typing and Basic V subtype further set it apart within Brilliant Stars.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Tournament legality is otherwise unspecified. Its powerful attack and ability make it notable for casual play or collection.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Protect the card in a sleeve and keep it away from sunlight and moisture. Given its rare secret status, consider a top loader or rigid case for handling or display.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Galarian Moltres V appears as a rare secret card with high HP and a unique Darkness-type ability, contributing to the set’s diverse, strategic lineup.

    Galarian Moltres V

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    Galarian Moltres V (Brilliant Stars) #183

  • Collector’s Guide: Magma Basin (Brilliant Stars #185)

    Magma Basin (Brilliant Stars 185) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Magma Basin is a Rare Secret Stadium card from the Brilliant Stars set, numbered 185. Its striking, volcanic-themed artwork makes it a vivid target for collectors who value bold, high-impact visuals.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 185 Rare Secret ORBITALLINK Inc.
    • Card Type: Stadium
    • Stage: Stadium
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Subtypes: Stadium
    • Pokémon: Magma Basin
    • Weaknesses: None
    • Resistances: None

    Key Printings

    Printed exclusively in Brilliant Stars under code swsh9-185, this Rare Secret Stadium is a standout for collectors focused on rare Stadium cards.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No known print variants. Identified by set code swsh9 and number 185, with illustrator credit to ORBITALLINK Inc., which also aids in authentication.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown

    Effect: Each player, once during their turn, may attach a Fire Energy card from their discard pile to one of their Benched Fire Pokémon; if they do, that Pokémon receives 2 damage counters. This tradeoff can enable aggressive Fire-type strategies.

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a Rare Secret with distinctive artwork, store Magma Basin in a protective sleeve and keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid bending and moisture to preserve condition and collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Introduced Magma Basin as a rare secret Stadium card with a unique Fire Energy attachment mechanic, illustrated by ORBITALLINK Inc. The card adds tactical depth to Fire-type decks and stands out for collectors due to its rarity and artwork.

    Magma Basin

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    Magma Basin (Brilliant Stars) #185