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  • Collector’s Guide: Chimchar (Brilliant Stars #24)

    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.

    Chimchar (Brilliant Stars) #24

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    Chimchar (Brilliant Stars) #24

  • Collector’s Guide: Torkoal (Brilliant Stars #23)

    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.

    swsh9-23

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    Torkoal (Brilliant Stars) #23

  • Collector’s Guide: Entei V (Brilliant Stars #22)

    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.

    swsh9-22

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    Entei V (Brilliant Stars) #22

  • Collector’s Guide: Moltres (Brilliant Stars #21)

    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.

    swsh9-21

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    Moltres (Brilliant Stars) #21

  • Collector’s Guide: Magmortar (Brilliant Stars #20)

    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.

    Magmortar (Brilliant Stars) #20

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    Magmortar (Brilliant Stars) #20

  • Collector’s Guide: Exeggutor (Brilliant Stars #2)

    Collector’s Guide: Exeggutor (Brilliant Stars #2)

    Exeggutor Collector’s Guide: Brilliant Stars #2

    Character Intro

    Exeggutor from the Brilliant Stars set is an uncommon card numbered 2. With a solid 140 HP and the attack Seed Bomb, it’s a straightforward yet engaging addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 2 Uncommon 140 Naoyo Kimura
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Exeggcute)
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: F

    Key Printings

    From the Sword & Shield series set Brilliant Stars, identified as card number 2.

    • Mega Drain — 70 damage; heals 30 damage from itself
    • Seed Bomb — 130 damage

    Its uncommon rarity makes it a moderately accessible collectible within the set.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this exact card printing.

    • Set code: swsh9
    • Regulation mark: F
    • Illustrator: Naoyo Kimura
    • Image reference: /images/swsh9/swsh9-2.jpg

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its uncommon rarity and detailed artwork, maintaining its surface and edges will help retain collector value. Avoid bending or exposure to extreme temperatures.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars: This set introduces Exeggutor as a versatile Grass-type Stage 1 Pokémon with healing capabilities and strong attacks. It fits well into thematic decks focusing on sustainability and power, though its tournament viability is currently unknown. The set’s artwork and design emphasize the Pokémon’s unique triple-headed nature.

    Exeggutor (Brilliant Stars) #2

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    Exeggutor (Brilliant Stars) #2

  • Collector’s Guide: Lumineon V (Brilliant Stars #40)

    Collector’s Guide: Lumineon V (Brilliant Stars #40)

    Lumineon V Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Lumineon V from the Brilliant Stars set is a Rare Holo V card numbered 40. It has 170 HP, the ability Luminous Sign, and the attack Aqua Return. This card offers a sleek design and solid gameplay potential.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 40 Rare Holo V 170 takuyoa
    • Card ID: swsh9-40
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic, V
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Series: Sword & Shield
    • Rules: V rule applies — when your Pokémon V is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Lumineon V appears in the Brilliant Stars expansion of the Sword & Shield series. It is identified as card number 40 and is a Rare Holo V variant.

    Ability — Luminous Sign

    When you play Lumineon V onto your Bench, you may search your deck for a Supporter card.

    Attack — Aqua Return

    Deals 120 damage and shuffles Lumineon V and all attached cards back into your deck.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Lumineon V card. Key identifiers include the set code swsh9, the regulation mark F, and the illustrator credit to takuyoa. The card’s market reference query is “Lumineon V Brilliant Stars 40.”

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    According to the provided data, this card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vibrant holofoil and detailed artwork by takuyoa, store Lumineon V in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use a top loader or a binder with individual pockets to prevent bending and surface scratches. Handle the card with clean hands to maintain its pristine condition.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars: This set introduced Lumineon V as a Basic Water-type Pokémon V with a useful Supporter-searching ability and a powerful attack that recycles itself into the deck. The card’s Rare Holo V rarity and striking illustration make it a notable collectible within the expansion.

    swsh9-40

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    Lumineon V (Brilliant Stars) #40

  • Collector’s Guide: Breloom (Brilliant Stars #4)

    Collector’s Guide: Breloom (Brilliant Stars #4)

    Breloom (Brilliant Stars 4) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Breloom from the Brilliant Stars set is a Rare card numbered 4. It features 110 HP and the striking attack Powdery Uppercut. This card offers a vibrant addition for collectors seeking dynamic Fighting-type Pokémon.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 4 Rare 110 Sekio
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Shroomish)
    • Attacks:
    • Spore Ball: Puts opponent’s Active Pokémon to Sleep, deals 30 damage (cost: 1 Grass)
    • Powdery Uppercut: Deals 130 damage, usable only if Spore Ball was used last turn (cost: 1 Grass)
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Flavor Text: “It scatters poisonous spores and throws powerful punches while its foe is hampered by inhaled spores.”
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Legality: unknown
    • Image:
      swsh9-4

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Breloom appears in the Sword & Shield series set Brilliant Stars as card number 4. It is classified as a Rare card and features artwork by Sekio. No release date is provided for this printing.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward by its set code “swsh9-4,” rarity, and illustrator. The regulation mark “F” helps place it within the Sword & Shield era.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status for this card is unknown. It is not currently listed as legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. The card’s attacks focus on status effects and conditional high damage, making it a tactical choice if playable.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vibrant Sekio artwork and maintain card condition, store this card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and unknown legality, keeping it in mint condition is advisable for both collectors and potential players.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): This set includes Breloom as a Rare Stage 1 Grass-type Pokémon with a unique sleep-inducing attack and a powerful follow-up move. The set emphasizes dynamic battle strategies and features detailed artwork consistent with the Sword & Shield series.

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    Breloom (Brilliant Stars) #4

  • Collector’s Guide: Floatzel (Brilliant Stars #39)

    Collector’s Guide: Floatzel (Brilliant Stars #39)

    Floatzel (Brilliant Stars 39) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Floatzel from the Brilliant Stars set is an uncommon card numbered 39. It has a vibrant 110 HP and features the Water Gun attack. This sleek Pokémon offers a straightforward yet engaging addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 39 Uncommon 110 kodama
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Buizel)
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Flavor Text: Its flotation sac developed as a result of pursuing aquatic prey. It can double as a rubber raft.

    Key Printings

    From the Sword & Shield series’ Brilliant Stars set, this Uncommon Floatzel (#39) is illustrated by kodama and offers two straightforward attacks:
    – Floatify: Retrieve up to 2 Item cards from your discard pile.
    – Water Gun: Deals 60 damage with a Water and Colorless energy cost.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by the set code “swsh9” and card ID “swsh9-39.” The card’s image can be referenced at /images/swsh9/swsh9-39.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its moderate HP and useful Floatify attack make it a potentially strategic choice in casual play, especially for decks focusing on item recovery.

    Care & Storage Tips

    As an Uncommon card from a recent set, Floatzel should be stored in a protective sleeve and kept away from direct sunlight to preserve its vibrant artwork by kodama. Avoid bending or exposure to moisture to maintain its condition for both play and collection.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars: Introduces Floatzel as a nimble Water-type with practical item recovery capabilities, fitting well into decks that benefit from recycling resources. The card’s clean design and moderate HP make it a solid pick for collectors and players alike.

    swsh9-39

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    Floatzel (Brilliant Stars) #39

  • Collector’s Guide: Buizel (Brilliant Stars #38)

    Collector’s Guide: Buizel (Brilliant Stars #38)

    Buizel (Brilliant Stars 38) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Buizel from the Brilliant Stars set is a common card numbered 38. It has 60 HP and features the attack Agility. This sleek Pokémon offers straightforward gameplay for collectors and players alike.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 38 Common 60 Tika Matsuno
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Flavor Text: It inflates the flotation sac around its neck and pokes its head out of the water to see what is going on.
    • Attack: Agility — Flip a coin; if heads, prevent all damage and effects of attacks done to this Pokémon during your opponent’s next turn. Deals 20 damage.
    • Abilities: None

    Key Printings

    This Buizel card is from the Sword & Shield Brilliant Stars expansion, identified as card number 38. It is a common rarity card with no known alternate printings or special editions.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Buizel card. Key identifiers include the set code “swsh9,” regulation mark “F,” and the illustrator credit to Tika Matsuno. The card image can be referenced at /images/swsh9/swsh9-38.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This Buizel card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. It features a simple attack that can provide a defensive advantage by potentially preventing damage and effects for a turn.

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a common card, Buizel benefits from standard protective measures such as sleeves and top loaders to preserve its condition. Avoid exposure to moisture and direct sunlight to maintain the vibrant artwork and card integrity.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): This set includes Buizel as a Basic Water-type Pokémon with a defensive Agility attack. It fits well into beginner decks or collectors focusing on the Brilliant Stars series.

    Buizel (Brilliant Stars) #38

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    Buizel (Brilliant Stars) #38