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  • Collector’s Guide: Cynthia’s Ambition (Brilliant Stars #169)

    Collector’s Guide: Cynthia’s Ambition (Brilliant Stars #169)

    Cynthia’s Ambition (Brilliant Stars #169) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Cynthia’s Ambition is a Rare Ultra card from Brilliant Stars, numbered 169. With vivid artwork that captures Cynthia’s character, it stands out as a desirable pick for collectors seeking marquee cards from the set.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 169 Rare Ultra Megumi Mizutani
    • Card Name: Cynthia’s Ambition
    • Set: Brilliant Stars (swsh9)
    • Card Number: 169
    • Type: Supporter
    • Stage: Supporter
    • Rarity: Rare Ultra
    • Illustrator: Megumi Mizutani
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Abilities/Attacks: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • HP: Unknown
    • Weaknesses/Resistances: None

    Key Printings

    This card is printed solely in the Brilliant Stars expansion of the Sword & Shield series. It is identified as card number 169 and classified as a Rare Ultra, making it a valuable addition for collectors focusing on high-rarity Supporter cards.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for Cynthia’s Ambition in this set. It is identified by set code “swsh9-169,” the regulation mark “F,” and Megumi Mizutani’s distinctive illustration.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown

    Rules text: Draw cards until you have 5 cards in hand, or 8 if any of your Pokémon were Knocked Out during your opponent’s last turn. You may play only 1 Supporter card during your turn.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the artwork and maintain its Rare Ultra condition, store Cynthia’s Ambition in a protective sleeve away from 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: Cynthia’s Ambition debuts as a strategic Supporter with a flexible card-draw effect, illustrated by Megumi Mizutani. It holds a Rare Ultra rarity in the ninth Sword & Shield expansion, adding depth to Supporter options in the set.

    swsh9-169

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    Cynthia's Ambition (Brilliant Stars) #169

  • 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: Barry (Brilliant Stars #167)

    Collector’s Guide: Barry (Brilliant Stars #167)

    Barry – Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Barry is a Rare Ultra card from the Brilliant Stars set, numbered 167. Its distinctive, energetic illustration complements the set’s vibrant theme and gives Barry a unique place within the Brilliant Stars lineup.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 167 Rare Ultra Yuu Nishida
    • Card ID: swsh9-167
    • Type: Supporter
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Series: Sword & Shield
    • Set Code: swsh9
    • Evolves From: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Abilities/Attacks: None
    • Rules Text: Draw 3 cards. | You may play only 1 Supporter card during your turn.

    Key Printings

    Barry appears exclusively in the Brilliant Stars expansion of the Sword & Shield series. This printing is notable for its Rare Ultra rarity and the clean, energetic illustration by Yuu Nishida. No alternate printings or promo versions are currently documented.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Barry card. Collectors can identify it by:
    – Set number: 167
    – Rarity: Rare Ultra
    – Regulation mark: F
    – Supporter subtype with no HP or attacks

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • Play notes: This card’s rules text allows the player to draw 3 cards but restricts playing more than one Supporter per turn, a common mechanic in the Pokémon TCG.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vibrant artwork and maintain the card’s condition, store Barry in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Rare Ultra status, consider a top loader or a binder with rigid pages for long-term storage.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Barry debuts as a Rare Ultra Supporter card, offering a simple yet effective draw mechanic. The set features a mix of Pokémon and Trainer cards, with Barry providing strategic support through card draw without any attacks or abilities.

    swsh9-167

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    Barry (Brilliant Stars) #167

  • Collector’s Guide: Magmar (Brilliant Stars #19)

    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.

    Magmar (Brilliant Stars) #19

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    Magmar (Brilliant Stars) #19

  • Collector’s Guide: Ultra Ball (Brilliant Stars #186)

    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.

    Ultra Ball (Brilliant Stars) #186

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    Ultra Ball (Brilliant Stars) #186

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

    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.

    swsh9-185

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    Magma Basin (Brilliant Stars) #185

  • Collector’s Guide: Arceus VSTAR (Brilliant Stars #184)

    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.

    Arceus VSTAR (Brilliant Stars) #184

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    Arceus VSTAR (Brilliant Stars) #184

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

    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.

    swsh9-183

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    Galarian Moltres V (Brilliant Stars) #183

  • 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

  • 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