Category: sword_shield

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

    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.

    swsh9-173

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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)

    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.

    swsh9-176

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    Arceus VSTAR (Brilliant Stars) #176

  • Collector’s Guide: Cynthia’s Ambition (Brilliant Stars #178)

    Collector’s Guide: Cynthia’s Ambition (Brilliant Stars #178)

    Cynthia’s Ambition (Brilliant Stars #178) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Cynthia’s Ambition is a Rare Rainbow card from the Brilliant Stars set, numbered 178. This striking card captures the essence of Cynthia’s determined spirit. Its vibrant design makes it a notable addition for collectors seeking unique and colorful cards.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 178 Rare Rainbow Megumi Mizutani
    • Card ID: swsh9-178
    • Stage: Supporter
    • Subtypes: Supporter
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Series: Sword & Shield
    • Pokémon: Cynthia’s Ambition
    • Weaknesses: None
    • Resistances: None
    • Evolves From: None

    Key Printings

    This card is exclusively printed in the Brilliant Stars expansion of the Sword & Shield series. It is identified as card number 178 and is classified as a Rare Rainbow rarity, making it a visually appealing and collectible piece.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. The illustrator credited is Megumi Mizutani, whose artwork adds a distinctive flair. The card’s market reference query is “Cynthia’s Ambition Brilliant Stars 178,” useful for collectors and traders.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown

    Effect Summary

    The card’s rules text allows the player to draw cards until they have five cards in hand, or eight if any of their Pokémon were knocked out during the opponent’s last turn. Only one Supporter card may be played per turn, aligning with standard Supporter card mechanics.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s rare rainbow foil and detailed artwork, store it 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): This set introduced Cynthia’s Ambition as a Supporter card with a powerful card draw effect, illustrated by Megumi Mizutani. It is a rare rainbow card that enhances deck consistency and strategic options in gameplay.

    swsh9-178

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    Cynthia's Ambition (Brilliant Stars) #178

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

    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.

    swsh9-179

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    Kindler (Brilliant Stars) #179

  • Collector’s Guide: Charizard VSTAR (Brilliant Stars #18)

    Collector’s Guide: Charizard VSTAR (Brilliant Stars #18)

    Charizard VSTAR Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Charizard VSTAR from the Brilliant Stars set is a striking Rare Holo VSTAR card, numbered 18. It boasts a powerful 280 HP and features the dynamic attack Star Blaze. This card stands out for collectors seeking a vivid addition to their collection.

    Quick Facts

    • HP: 280
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: VSTAR
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Attacks: Explosive Fire (130+ damage), Star Blaze (320 damage)
    • Illustrator: 5ban Graphics
    • Set: Brilliant Stars (swsh9)
    • Card Number: 18
    • Rarity: Rare Holo VSTAR
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • VSTAR Rule: When this Pokémon VSTAR is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.
    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 18 Rare Holo VSTAR 280 5ban Graphics

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Charizard VSTAR is from the Brilliant Stars set, identified by the set code swsh9-18. It evolves from Charizard V and features two powerful attacks: Explosive Fire, which deals extra damage if the Pokémon has damage counters, and Star Blaze, a high-damage VSTAR Power attack requiring energy discard.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by its card number 18 in the Brilliant Stars set and the illustrator credit to 5ban Graphics. The card’s subtype is VSTAR, and it carries the regulation mark F.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. The VSTAR rule applies: when your Pokémon VSTAR is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vibrant holofoil and detailed artwork, store Charizard VSTAR in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use a top-loader or binder with rigid pages for added protection against bending or surface scratches.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): This set features Charizard VSTAR as a highlight card, showcasing powerful Fire-type attacks and the VSTAR mechanic. The set is known for its high-quality holofoil finishes and dynamic artwork by 5ban Graphics.

    swsh9-18

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    Charizard VSTAR (Brilliant Stars) #18

  • Collector’s Guide: Roseanne’s Backup (Brilliant Stars #180)

    Collector’s Guide: Roseanne’s Backup (Brilliant Stars #180)

    Roseanne’s Backup Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Roseanne’s Backup is a Rare Rainbow card from the Brilliant Stars set, numbered 180. Its vibrant design stands out in the collection and adds a unique flair to any Brilliant Stars lineup.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 180 Rare Rainbow kirisAki
    • Card Number: 180
    • Set: Brilliant Stars (swsh9)
    • Card Type: Supporter
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Illustrator: kirisAki
    • Image:
      swsh9-180

    Key Printings

    • Printed solely in the Brilliant Stars expansion
    • Identified as a Rare Rainbow variant
    • Does not evolve from any Pokémon and has no HP, attacks, or abilities, focusing entirely on its Supporter role

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is uniquely identified by set code “swsh9-180” and its Rare Rainbow rarity.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • Effect: Choose one or more of the following effects — shuffle a Pokémon, a Pokémon Tool card, a Stadium card, or an Energy card from your discard pile back into your deck.
    • Play rule: Only one Supporter card may be played during your turn.

    Care & Storage Tips

    • Use a protective sleeve to preserve its vibrant colors
    • Keep away from direct sunlight
    • Store in a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets to prevent bending or surface damage

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Introduced Roseanne’s Backup as a versatile Supporter card with multiple shuffle options, enhancing deck recycling strategies. The set features this card as a Rare Rainbow variant with striking art by kirisAki.

    This card remains a fascinating piece for collectors interested in Supporter cards with strategic utility and eye-catching design.

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    Roseanne's Backup (Brilliant Stars) #180

  • Collector’s Guide: Galarian Articuno V (Brilliant Stars #181)

    Collector’s Guide: Galarian Articuno V (Brilliant Stars #181)

    Galarian Articuno V Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Galarian Articuno V from Brilliant Stars is a Rare Secret card numbered 181. With 210 HP, the ability Reconstitute adds strategic depth, and its Psyray attack pairs well with its resilient design.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 181 Rare Secret 210 5ban Graphics
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Basic,V
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Darkness ×2
    • Resistance: Fighting -30
    • Ability: Reconstitute (Discard 2 cards from your hand to draw a card once per turn)
    • Attack: Psyray (110 damage; Confuses opponent’s Active Pokémon)
    • Regulation Mark: E
    • V Rule: When your Pokémon V is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on Galarian Articuno V from the Sword & Shield Brilliant Stars expansion, card number 181. Classified as a Rare Secret, it’s a notable target for collectors of high-rarity Psychic-type V cards.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants. Identified by set code “swsh9-181” with artwork by 5ban Graphics, its Psychic typing and Rare Secret rarity distinguish it within Brilliant Stars.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    Protect with sleeves, avoid sunlight and moisture, and handle with clean hands. As a Rare Secret, consider a rigid top-loader or binder storage to maintain condition and value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Features Galarian Articuno V as a Rare Secret card with strong Psychic-type abilities and a high HP pool. This set highlights powerful Basic V Pokémon with unique abilities and attacks.

    swsh9-181

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    Galarian Articuno V (Brilliant Stars) #181

  • Collector’s Guide: Galarian Zapdos V (Brilliant Stars #182)

    Collector’s Guide: Galarian Zapdos V (Brilliant Stars #182)

    Galarian Zapdos V Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Galarian Zapdos V from the Brilliant Stars set is a Rare Secret card numbered 182. This striking Pokémon boasts 200 HP and features the ability Fighting Instinct. Its powerful attack, Thunderous Kick, adds to its dynamic presence in any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 182 Rare Secret 200 5ban Graphics
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Basic, V
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Ability: Fighting Instinct — reduces attack cost by Colorless for each opponent’s Pokémon V in play
    • Attack: Thunderous Kick — deals 170 damage and discards a Special Energy from the opponent’s Active Pokémon before damage
    • V Rule: When your Pokémon V is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the exact printing of Galarian Zapdos V from the Brilliant Stars set, card number 182. It is classified as a Rare Secret card, making it a coveted find for collectors seeking high-rarity Fighting-type V Pokémon.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward through its set code “swsh9-182,” rarity as Rare Secret, and the unique Fighting Instinct ability. The card’s artwork by 5ban Graphics further distinguishes it.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is marked with regulation mark “E” but is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s vibrant artwork and condition, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Rare Secret rarity, consider using a top loader or a hard case for long-term protection.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Introduced Galarian Zapdos V as a powerful Fighting-type Basic V with a unique ability that synergizes against Pokémon V-heavy decks. This set is notable for its high-rarity secret cards and striking 5ban Graphics illustrations.

    swsh9-182

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    Galarian Zapdos V (Brilliant Stars) #182