Tag: Brilliant Stars

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.
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October 1, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Charizard V (Brilliant Stars #17)
Charizard V Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Charizard V from the Brilliant Stars set is a striking Rare Holo V card featuring 220 HP. Numbered 17, it stands out with vivid artwork and a strong presence. Wielding the powerful Heat Blast attack, it’s a dynamic addition to any collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 17 Rare Holo V 220 N-DESIGN Inc.
- Pokémon: Charizard V
- Set: Brilliant Stars (swsh9)
- Card Number: 17
- HP: 220
- Type: Fire
- Stage: Basic,V
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Weakness: Water ×2
- Regulation Mark: F
- Attacks:
- Incinerate (90 damage): Discards all Pokémon Tools from opponent’s Active Pokémon before dealing damage.
- Heat Blast (180 damage): No additional effect text.
- Rules: V rule applies—when this Pokémon V is Knocked Out, opponent takes 2 Prize cards.
Key Printings

This exact printing of Charizard V appears in the Brilliant Stars expansion of the Sword & Shield series. It is identified as card number 17 and classified as a Rare Holo V, making it a notable collectible for fans of powerful Fire-type Pokémon.

Variants & Identifiers

No print variants are documented for this card. Key identifiers include its set code “swsh9,” regulation mark “F,” and the illustrator credit to N-DESIGN Inc. The card’s image can be referenced at /images/swsh9/swsh9-17.jpg.

Legality & Play Notes

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

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the card’s Rare Holo V finish 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 scratches.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Features Charizard V as a powerful Basic V Pokémon with strong Fire-type attacks and strategic utility through its Incinerate move. The set emphasizes dynamic artwork and competitive V cards, with this Charizard standing out due to its high HP and impactful attacks.
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October 1, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Kindler (Brilliant Stars #170)
Kindler (Brilliant Stars 170) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Kindler is a Rare Ultra card from the Brilliant Stars set, numbered 170. Its striking design captures attention among collectors and adds a vibrant touch to any collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 170 Rare Ultra Hitoshi Ariga
- Card ID: swsh9-170
- Stage: Supporter
- Subtypes: Supporter
- Retreat Cost: 0
- Regulation Mark: F
- Types: None
- Evolves From: None
- Weaknesses/Resistances: None
Key Printings

This exact printing of Kindler is from the Brilliant Stars set, identified by set code swsh9 and card number 170. It is a Rare Ultra rarity card, making it a notable find for collectors focusing on high-rarity Supporter cards.

Variants & Identifiers
- No known print variants for this card
- Card ID: swsh9-170
- Illustrator: Hitoshi Ariga
- Image path: /images/swsh9/swsh9-170.jpg
Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
Rules text:
“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 condition and value, sleeve the card and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Rare Ultra status and unique artwork, store it flat in a clean, stable environment and avoid excessive handling to keep the surface pristine.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Includes Kindler as a Rare Ultra Supporter card, notable for its strategic Supporter effect and distinctive illustration. The set focuses on dynamic gameplay elements and visually appealing cards, with Kindler fitting well into this theme.
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October 1, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Marnie’s Pride (Brilliant Stars #171)
Marnie’s Pride Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Marnie’s Pride is a Rare Ultra Supporter from the Brilliant Stars set, numbered 171. Its striking design captures Marnie’s personality with vivid detail, making it a standout for Brilliant Stars-focused collections.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 171 Rare Ultra Souichirou Gunjima
- Card Number: 171
- Set Code: swsh9
- Card Type: Supporter
- Stage: Supporter
- Retreat Cost: 0
- Regulation Mark: F
- Abilities/Attacks: None
- Weaknesses/Resistances: None
- Rules Text: Attach a basic Energy card from your discard pile to 1 of your Benched Pokémon. You may play only 1 Supporter card during your turn.
Key Printings

Marnie’s Pride appears exclusively in Brilliant Stars as card number 171. It is printed as a Rare Ultra variant, a desirable slot for collectors targeting high-rarity Sword & Shield cards.

Variants & Identifiers

No known print variants exist. It is identified by set code “swsh9” and regulation mark “F.” The official market reference query is “Marnie’s Pride Brilliant Stars 171.”

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. It functions as a Supporter with a useful energy-retrieval effect, attaching a basic Energy from the discard pile to a Benched Pokémon.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the vivid artwork and Rare Ultra finish, store the card in a protective sleeve, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching to maintain collector value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Marnie’s Pride debuts as a Rare Ultra Supporter with a unique energy-recovery effect and a striking illustration by Souichirou Gunjima. No other sets or reprints are currently known.
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October 1, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Roseanne’s Backup (Brilliant Stars #172)
Roseanne’s Backup Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Roseanne’s Backup is a Rare Ultra Supporter from the Brilliant Stars set, numbered 172. With striking artwork by kirisAki, it’s a notable pickup for collectors seeking a clean, visually appealing Supporter.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 172 Rare Ultra kirisAki
- Card ID: swsh9-172
- Stage: Supporter
- Subtype: Supporter
- Retreat Cost: 0
- Regulation Mark: F
- Types: None
- Weaknesses: None
- Resistances: None
- Evolves From: None
- Flavor Text: Unknown
Key Printings

Printed exclusively in the Brilliant Stars set under the Sword & Shield series, this card is identified as number 172 with Rare Ultra rarity. The kirisAki artwork is unique to this printing.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants. It is identified by set code “swsh9” and regulation mark “F.” The card’s lack of HP and types makes it distinct among Supporter cards.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown

This Supporter card allows you to choose one or more of the following effects:
– Shuffle a Pokémon from your discard pile back into your deck.
– Shuffle a Pokémon Tool card from your discard pile back into your deck.
– Shuffle a Stadium card from your discard pile back into your deck.
– Shuffle an Energy card from your discard pile back into your deck.

You may play only one Supporter card during your turn.

Care & Storage Tips

Store in a protective sleeve away from sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity, consider a top-loader or a binder with individual pockets for optimal protection.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Brilliant Stars: Introduced Roseanne’s Backup as a Rare Ultra Supporter with unique kirisAki artwork, aligning with the set’s emphasis on versatile Supporter effects.
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October 1, 2025
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.
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October 1, 2025
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.
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October 1, 2025
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.
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October 1, 2025
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.
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October 1, 2025
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.
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October 1, 2025