Category: sword_shield

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.
Catch This Card on eBay

Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Galarian Moltres V Brilliant Stars.

Browse eBay listings

This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
October 1, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Arceus VSTAR (Brilliant Stars #184)
Arceus VSTAR Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Arceus VSTAR from the Brilliant Stars set packs a formidable 280 HP. This Rare Secret card showcases the powerful ability Starbirth and the dynamic attack Trinity Nova. Its sleek design and strategic potential make it a standout for both collectors and players.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 184 Rare Secret 280 5ban Graphics
- Type: Colorless
- Stage: VSTAR
- Evolves From: Arceus V
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Resistance: None
- Regulation Mark: F
- Rules: VSTAR rule applies — when knocked out, opponent takes 2 Prize cards.
Key Printings

This exact printing is from the Sword & Shield Brilliant Stars expansion, identified as card number 184. It is a rare secret card, making it a coveted find for collectors seeking high-rarity VSTAR cards.

Variants & Identifiers

No print variants are listed for this card. It is uniquely identified by its set code “swsh9-184” and the Brilliant Stars set symbol. The card’s artwork by 5ban Graphics is a key visual identifier.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card’s official tournament legality status is unknown. It features the VSTAR rule, which impacts gameplay by awarding the opponent two Prize cards if Arceus VSTAR is knocked out.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the card’s rare secret status and vibrant 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.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Brilliant Stars: Introduced Arceus VSTAR as a powerful Colorless-type VSTAR card with strong deck-searching and energy acceleration abilities, enhancing strategic play options.
Catch This Card on eBay

Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Arceus VSTAR Brilliant Stars.

Browse eBay listings

This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
October 1, 2025
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.
Catch This Card on eBay

Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Magma Basin Brilliant Stars.

Browse eBay listings

This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
October 1, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Ultra Ball (Brilliant Stars #186)
Ultra Ball (Brilliant Stars 186) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Ultra Ball is a Rare Secret card from the Brilliant Stars set, numbered 186. Its vivid artwork and high rarity make it a standout Trainer pickup that reflects the dynamic spirit of the Brilliant Stars expansion.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 186 Rare Secret sadaji
- Card Name: Ultra Ball
- Card Type: Item
- Stage: Item
- Set Code: swsh9
- Series: Sword & Shield
- Retreat Cost: 0
- Regulation Mark: F
- Rarity: Rare Secret
- Illustrator: sadaji
- Image URL: /images/swsh9/swsh9-186.jpg
Key Printings

This exact printing appears in Brilliant Stars (set code swsh9) as card number 186. As a Rare Secret, it’s a notable target for collectors and players.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this Ultra Ball. Identifiers include set code swsh9, number 186, and illustrator sadaji. The card is an Item type with no HP, attacks, or abilities, and it carries regulation mark F.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown

Rules: You can use this card only if you discard 2 other cards from your hand. Search your deck for a Pokémon, reveal it, and put it into your hand. Then, shuffle your deck. You may play any number of Item cards during your turn.

Care & Storage Tips

Protect with a sleeve, keep out of direct sunlight and moisture, and use a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets to prevent bending or scratches. Handle by the edges to avoid fingerprints.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Includes Ultra Ball as a Rare Secret featuring clean artwork by sadaji and a useful deck-searching effect. Part of the Sword & Shield series with regulation mark F.
Catch This Card on eBay

Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Ultra Ball Brilliant Stars.

Browse eBay listings

This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
October 1, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Magmar (Brilliant Stars #19)
Magmar (Brilliant Stars 19) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Magmar from Brilliant Stars is a Common, Basic Fire-type card numbered 19 with 90 HP. Featuring the attack Fiery Punch, its clean, straightforward design makes it an easy pick for both players and collectors.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 19 Common 90 Shinji Kanda
- HP: 90
- Type: Fire
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Weakness: Water ×2
- Regulation Mark: F
- Evolves From: None
- Flavor Text: “Magmar dispatches its prey with fire. But it regrets this habit once it realizes that it has burned its intended prey to a charred crisp.”
Key Printings

This exact printing is from the Sword & Shield Brilliant Stars set, card number 19. It features two attacks: Low Kick (20 damage) requiring two Colorless energies, and Fiery Punch (70 damage) requiring two Fire and one Colorless energy. The card has no abilities.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by its set code “swsh9-19” and the regulation mark “F.” The illustrator credit goes to Shinji Kanda. The card’s image can be found at /images/swsh9/swsh9-19.jpg.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.

Care & Storage Tips

As a common card with a moderate retreat cost and no special abilities, preserving condition is key. Store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture to maintain the vibrant artwork and prevent warping.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Magmar appears as a straightforward Basic Fire-type Pokémon with solid attack options but no abilities. It fits well into casual play and collecting due to its common rarity and iconic fiery theme.
Catch This Card on eBay

Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Magmar Brilliant Stars.

Browse eBay listings

This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
October 1, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Magmortar (Brilliant Stars #20)
Magmortar (Brilliant Stars #20) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Magmortar from the Brilliant Stars set is a Rare card numbered 20 with 140 HP. Its dynamic attack, Boltsplosion, makes it a striking addition to any collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 20 Rare 140 AKIRA EGAWA
- Type: Fire
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Magmar)
- Retreat Cost: 3
- Weakness: Water ×2
- Resistance: None
- Regulation Mark: F
Key Printings

This Magmortar is from Brilliant Stars (set code swsh9), card number 20. It has two attacks and no abilities:
– Mega Punch — 50 damage for two Colorless energies.
– Boltsplosion — 120+ damage for Fire/Fire/Colorless; it deals an additional 120 damage if Electivire is on your Bench.

Variants & Identifiers
- There are no known print variants for this exact Magmortar card.
- Identifiers: set code (swsh9), card number (20), illustrator AKIRA EGAWA.
- Card image reference: /images/swsh9/swsh9-20.jpg.
Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its play viability may be limited due to this status.
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 and surface wear.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Features Magmortar as a rare Stage 1 Fire-type Pokémon with powerful attacks and a high HP pool, highlighting dynamic Sword & Shield-era illustrations and strategic gameplay elements.
Catch This Card on eBay

Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Magmortar Brilliant Stars.

Browse eBay listings

This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
October 1, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Moltres (Brilliant Stars #21)
Moltres Collector’s Guide: Brilliant Stars #21

Character Intro

Moltres from the Brilliant Stars set is a Rare Holo card numbered 21. This fiery Pokémon boasts 120 HP and features the striking attack Inferno Wings. Its vibrant design captures the intense energy of this legendary bird.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 21 Rare Holo 120 otumami
- Type: Fire
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Water ×2
- Resistance: None
- Regulation Mark: F
- Flavor Text: “It’s one of the legendary bird Pokémon. When Moltres flaps its flaming wings, they glimmer with a dazzling red glow.”
Key Printings

Appears in the Sword & Shield “Brilliant Stars” set as card number 21.

Attack Spotlight — Inferno Wings
- Damage: 20+
- Effect: Increases by 70 if Moltres has damage counters, ignoring Weakness for this attack’s damage.
Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by its set code “swsh9” and card number 21. The illustrator credited is otumami, and the card’s rarity is Rare Holo.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the vibrant holofoil and detailed artwork, store this card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface to maintain its collector value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Brilliant Stars (swsh9): This set includes Moltres as a Rare Holo Basic Fire-type Pokémon with a unique attack that benefits from damage counters and ignores Weakness, adding strategic depth to gameplay. The set’s artwork and design highlight the legendary status of Moltres with a dazzling red glow.
Catch This Card on eBay

Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Moltres Brilliant Stars.

Browse eBay listings

This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
October 1, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Entei V (Brilliant Stars #22)
Entei V Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Entei V from Brilliant Stars is a Rare Holo V with 230 HP. Its Fleet-Footed ability provides steady draw when Active, while Burning Rondo scales damage based on both players’ Benches. It is card number 22 in the set.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 22 Rare Holo V 230 PLANETA Mochizuki
- Card ID: swsh9-22
- Type: Fire
- Stage: Basic,V
- Retreat Cost: 3
- Weakness: Water ×2
- Regulation Mark: F
- Ability: Fleet-Footed — Once during your turn, if this Pokémon is Active, you may draw a card.
- Attack: Burning Rondo — Does 20+ damage, increasing by 20 for each Benched Pokémon on both sides.
- Rules: V rule applies — when your Pokémon V is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.
Key Printings

The key printing of Entei V is from the Sword & Shield Brilliant Stars expansion (set code swsh9, card 22). It features a Rare Holo V treatment with detailed artwork by PLANETA Mochizuki.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this Entei V. Identify it by set code (swsh9), card number (22), Rare Holo V rarity, regulation mark F, and the PLANETA Mochizuki illustrator credit.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data. The V rule applies, meaning if Entei V is Knocked Out, the opponent takes 2 Prize cards. Its ability and attack encourage aggressive bench management and card draw strategies.

Care & Storage Tips

Protect the holofoil and artwork by sleeving the card and keeping it away from sunlight and moisture. Use a top loader or a rigid-page binder for extra protection, especially given its appeal as a Rare Holo V.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Entei V debuts as a powerful Basic V Pokémon with a strong Fire-type presence, featuring a unique ability to draw cards and an attack that rewards bench positioning. This set highlights dynamic gameplay and striking card art, making it a sought-after piece for collectors and players alike.
Catch This Card on eBay

Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Entei V Brilliant Stars.

Browse eBay listings

This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
October 1, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Torkoal (Brilliant Stars #23)
Torkoal Collector’s Guide: Brilliant Stars #23

Character Intro

Torkoal is an Uncommon card from the Brilliant Stars set, numbered 23. It features 120 HP and a single attack, Guard Press. This sturdy Pokémon offers solid presence with its straightforward design and reliable stats.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 23 Uncommon 120 Kagemaru Himeno
- Type: Fire
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Weakness: Water ×2
- Resistance: None
- Regulation Mark: F
- Set Code: swsh9
- Series: sword_shield
- Card ID: swsh9-23
- Flavor Text: It burns coal inside its shell for energy. It blows out black soot if it is endangered.
Key Printings

This guide focuses on the single known printing of Torkoal from the Brilliant Stars set, numbered 23. It is an Uncommon rarity card with no evolutions or alternate forms in this printing.

Variants & Identifiers

No print variants or alternate art versions are documented for this Torkoal card. Identifiers include the set code “swsh9,” regulation mark “F,” and the card number 23. The illustrator credit goes to Kagemaru Himeno.

Legality & Play Notes

Format Legality
- Legality: unknown
- This Torkoal card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
Attack Overview
- It has two attacks: “Firebreathing,” which can deal extra damage on a coin flip, and “Guard Press,” which reduces damage taken on the opponent’s next turn while dealing solid damage itself.
Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the vivid artwork and maintain card condition, store this card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface to keep the card collectible and visually striking.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Brilliant Stars (swsh9): This set features Torkoal as a Basic Fire-type Pokémon with solid HP and versatile attacks. It stands out for its unique coal-burning theme and defensive capabilities, making it a memorable addition to the set’s lineup.
Catch This Card on eBay

Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Torkoal Brilliant Stars.

Browse eBay listings

This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
October 1, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Chimchar (Brilliant Stars #24)
Chimchar (Brilliant Stars 24) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Chimchar from the Brilliant Stars set is a Common card numbered 24. It features 50 HP and a single attack called Ember. This card offers a straightforward design for collectors seeking a classic Fire-type Pokémon.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 24 Common 50 Shin Nagasawa

Card Stats
- Type: Fire
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Water ×2
- Attack: Ember (30 damage, discard an Energy)
- Evolves From: None
- Regulation Mark: F
- Series: Sword & Shield
- Set Code: swsh9
- Flavor Text: “The gas made in its belly burns from its rear end. The fire burns weakly when it feels sick.”
- Image URL: /images/swsh9/swsh9-24.jpg
Key Printings

This Chimchar card is from the Brilliant Stars set, identified by the set code swsh9 and card number 24. It is a common rarity card featuring artwork by Shin Nagasawa. No alternate printings or special editions are noted for this exact printing.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this Chimchar card. Key identifiers include its common rarity, the regulation mark F, and the single Fire-type Ember attack that requires discarding an Energy. The card’s straightforward design and modest HP make it easily recognizable within the Brilliant Stars set.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This Chimchar card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its single attack and low HP suggest it is more suited for casual play or collection rather than competitive tournament use.

Care & Storage Tips

As a common card with no noted variants, standard card care applies: store in a protective sleeve and keep away from moisture and direct sunlight to preserve the vibrant artwork by Shin Nagasawa. Given its common status, it is ideal for beginner collectors or those focusing on the Brilliant Stars set.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Brilliant Stars (swsh9): This set features Chimchar as a Basic Fire-type Pokémon with a simple but effective Ember attack. The card’s flavor text and art emphasize Chimchar’s fiery nature and vulnerability, making it a charming addition to any collection focused on the Sword & Shield era.
Catch This Card on eBay

Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Chimchar Brilliant Stars.

Browse eBay listings

This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
October 1, 2025