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  • 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: 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: 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: 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: Shroomish (Brilliant Stars #3)

    Collector’s Guide: Shroomish (Brilliant Stars #3)

    Shroomish Collector’s Guide: Brilliant Stars #3

    Character Intro

    Shroomish from the Brilliant Stars set is a Common Basic Grass-type card numbered 3. With 50 HP and the straightforward attack Headbutt, it’s a simple yet charming addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 3 Common 50 Shigenori Negishi
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Attack: Headbutt (20 damage, costs 1 Grass energy)
    • Flavor Text: “It spouts poison spores from the top of its head. These spores cause pain all over if inhaled.”
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Set Code: swsh9
    • Card ID: swsh9-3
    • Image:
      swsh9-3

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Shroomish appears in the Sword & Shield Brilliant Stars expansion as card number 3. It is a Common rarity card with no abilities and a single attack, Headbutt, which deals 20 damage for one Grass energy.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by its set code “swsh9,” regulation mark “F,” and its position as card number 3 in the Brilliant Stars set.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. No additional tournament or play notes are available.

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a Common card with a modest HP and simple design, Shroomish should be stored in a protective sleeve to maintain its condition. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight and moisture to preserve the vibrant illustration by Shigenori Negishi.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Shroomish is introduced as a straightforward Basic Grass-type Pokémon with a single attack and no abilities. It serves as an accessible entry point for collectors and players exploring the set.

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    Shroomish (Brilliant Stars) #3

  • Collector’s Guide: Kingler VMAX (Brilliant Stars #29)

    Collector’s Guide: Kingler VMAX (Brilliant Stars #29)

    Kingler VMAX Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Kingler VMAX is a Rare Holo VMAX from Brilliant Stars, numbered 29. With 330 HP and the hard-hitting G-Max Pincer, it commands the field with aggressive, high-impact play. Its dynamic artwork and impressive stats make it a standout pull.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 29 Rare Holo VMAX 330 5ban Graphics
    • Card ID: swsh9-29
    • Stage: VMAX (evolves from Kingler V)
    • Type: Water
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Series: Sword & Shield
    • Set Code: swsh9
    • Image:
      swsh9-29

    Key Printings

    This card is the Brilliant Stars printing of Kingler VMAX, numbered 29 and illustrated by 5ban Graphics. No alternate printings or reprints are noted for this specific card.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No listed print variants exist for this Kingler VMAX. Its identifiers are the card ID swsh9-29 and regulation mark F, distinguishing it from other Kingler or VMAX cards in different sets.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown

    • Bubbles Galore: Attach up to 5 Water Energy cards from your deck to your Pokémon.
    • G-Max Pincer: 240 damage and 30 damage to itself.
    • VMAX Rule: When it is knocked out, your opponent takes 3 Prize cards.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Protect the holo finish by sleeving the card and keeping it away from sunlight and moisture. Use a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets for safe handling and display.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars: Includes Kingler VMAX as a Rare Holo VMAX with strong Water-type attacks and high HP. It is part of the Sword & Shield series and features VMAX mechanics with regulation mark F.

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    Kingler VMAX (Brilliant Stars) #29

  • Collector’s Guide: Kingler V (Brilliant Stars #28)

    Collector’s Guide: Kingler V (Brilliant Stars #28)

    Kingler V Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Kingler V is a Rare Holo V card from the Brilliant Stars set, numbered 28. With 220 HP and the hard-hitting Raging Pincer, it’s a resilient, straightforward attacker for Water-focused builds.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 28 Rare Holo V 220 PLANETA Mochizuki
    • Pokémon: Kingler V
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic, V
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Set Code: swsh9
    • Card ID: swsh9-28
    • Image URL: /images/swsh9/swsh9-28.jpg

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Kingler V appears in the Sword & Shield Brilliant Stars expansion. It is a Rare Holo V card, numbered 28 in the set, featuring artwork by PLANETA Mochizuki.

    • Falling Bubbles: allows searching for Water Energy cards.
    • Raging Pincer: a high-damage attack that also inflicts self-damage.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Kingler V card. Identify it by set code “swsh9,” number 28, the PLANETA Mochizuki illustrator credit, Rare Holo V rarity, and regulation mark “F.”

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    Kingler V follows the standard 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

    Protect the holo finish and artwork by sleeving the card and keeping it away from sunlight and moisture. Use a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets to prevent bending or surface scratches, and minimize handling to preserve condition and value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Kingler V debuts as a powerful Water-type Basic V with strong energy acceleration and a high-damage attack, aligning with the set’s emphasis on dynamic V cards and appealing to Sword & Shield-era collectors.

    Kingler V (Brilliant Stars) #28

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    Kingler V (Brilliant Stars) #28

  • Collector’s Guide: Simisear V (Brilliant Stars #27)

    Collector’s Guide: Simisear V (Brilliant Stars #27)

    Simisear V Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Simisear V from the Brilliant Stars set is a Rare Holo V card numbered 27. It boasts a vibrant design and 210 HP, making it a sturdy addition to any collection. Its notable attack, Flare Juggling, adds dynamic flair to gameplay.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 27 Rare Holo V 210 5ban Graphics
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Basic, V
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Rules: V rule applies—when your Pokémon V is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Simisear V is from the Brilliant Stars set, identified as card number 27. It is a Rare Holo V card with no evolutions from previous forms.

    • Bursting Power: Allows attaching up to 2 basic Energy cards from hand.
    • Flare Juggling: Increases damage based on the opponent’s Active Pokémon’s Energy.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include the set code swsh9, the card number 27, and the illustrator credit to 5ban Graphics. The card image can be referenced at /images/swsh9/swsh9-27.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s vibrant holo finish and maintain its condition, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface to retain its collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Simisear V debuts as a powerful Fire-type Basic V card with high HP and versatile attacks, contributing to the set’s dynamic gameplay and collectible appeal.

    Simisear V (Brilliant Stars) #27

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    Simisear V (Brilliant Stars) #27

  • Collector’s Guide: Infernape (Brilliant Stars #26)

    Collector’s Guide: Infernape (Brilliant Stars #26)

    Infernape Collector’s Guide: Brilliant Stars #26

    Character Intro

    Infernape from Brilliant Stars is a Rare Holo card numbered 26. With 150 HP and the attack Burning Kick, it brings fast, aggressive pressure to the board.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 26 Rare Holo 150 Anesaki Dynamic
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Stage 2
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Flavor Text: “It tosses its enemies around with agility. It uses all its limbs to fight in its own unique style.”

    Key Printings

    This Infernape card is from the Sword & Shield series, specifically the Brilliant Stars set.

    Attacks

    • Infernal Vortex: 80 damage times the number of Energy cards revealed from the top of your deck.
    • Burning Kick: 160 damage; discard all Energy from this Pokémon.

    Variants & Identifiers

    This printing has no known print variants. It is identified by the set code “swsh9” and card number 26. The card is a Rare Holo variant, illustrated by Anesaki Dynamic. The image can be referenced at /images/swsh9/swsh9-26.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. No official tournament play notes are available.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vibrant holofoil and detailed artwork, store this card 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: This set features Infernape as a powerful Stage 2 Fire-type with strong attacks that leverage Energy management. It fits well into aggressive Fire decks but its tournament viability is unknown due to current legality status.

    Infernape (Brilliant Stars) #26

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    Infernape (Brilliant Stars) #26

  • Collector’s Guide: Monferno (Brilliant Stars #25)

    Collector’s Guide: Monferno (Brilliant Stars #25)

    Monferno (Brilliant Stars 25) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Monferno from Brilliant Stars is an Uncommon card, number 25, with 80 HP. It features the attack Flamethrower and offers balanced stats—appealing to both collectors and players.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 25 Uncommon 80 KEIICHIRO ITO
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Chimchar)
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Flavor Text: “It uses ceilings and walls to launch aerial attacks. Its fiery tail is but one weapon.”
    • Image URL: /images/swsh9/swsh9-25.jpg

    Key Printings

    This exact printing appears in the Sword & Shield series set “Brilliant Stars” as card number 25. It is classified as an Uncommon rarity card.

    • Attacks:
    • “Flare” — 30 damage for one Fire Energy
    • “Flamethrower” — 50 damage; discard an Energy from Monferno

    Variants & Identifiers

    No print variants are listed for this card. It is identified by the set code “swsh9” and the card number 25. The illustrator, KEIICHIRO ITO, is a key identifier for collectors seeking this specific artwork.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    To protect the artwork and condition, store the card in a sleeve away from sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching to maintain value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Introduces Monferno as a Stage 1 Fire-type with solid HP and versatile attacks, emphasizing energy management with Flamethrower’s discard mechanic. This set highlights dynamic Fire-type Pokémon with engaging artwork by KEIICHIRO ITO.

    Monferno (Brilliant Stars) #25

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    Monferno (Brilliant Stars) #25