Tag: Brilliant Stars

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
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:
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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October 1, 2025
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.
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October 1, 2025
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.
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October 1, 2025
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.
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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.
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October 1, 2025
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.
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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.
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October 1, 2025