Tag: Collector’s Guide

Collector’s Guide: Arceus VSTAR (Brilliant Stars #176)
Arceus VSTAR Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Arceus VSTAR from the Brilliant Stars set is a Rare Rainbow card numbered 176. This Colorless-type VSTAR boasts 280 HP and the ability Starbirth. Its powerful attack, Trinity Nova, further elevates its presence in any collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 176 Rare Rainbow 280 5ban Graphics
- Type: Colorless
- Stage: VSTAR
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Resistance: None
- Regulation Mark: F
- Evolves From: Arceus V
Key Printings

This exact printing of Arceus VSTAR appears in the Brilliant Stars set as card number 176. It is a Rare Rainbow rarity, making it a visually distinctive and collectible card within the set.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include its set code “swsh9” and the regulation mark “F.” The card’s unique VSTAR subtype and its powerful ability “Starbirth” distinguish it from other Arceus cards.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
– VSTAR rule: When your Pokémon VSTAR is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.
– Ability “Starbirth” allows searching your deck for up to 2 cards once per game.
– Attack “Trinity Nova” deals 200 damage and attaches up to 3 basic Energy cards from your deck to your Pokémon V.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve this Rare Rainbow card’s vibrant artwork and condition, 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: Features Arceus VSTAR as a powerful Colorless-type VSTAR card with a high HP and impactful abilities, adding strategic depth and visual appeal to the set.
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October 1, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Cheren’s Care (Brilliant Stars #177)
Cheren’s Care Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Cheren’s Care is a Rare Rainbow Supporter from Brilliant Stars, numbered 177. Its vibrant, rainbow finish by Ryuta Fuse captures Cheren’s essence and makes it a distinctive target for collectors of high-rarity Trainer cards.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 177 Rare Rainbow Ryuta Fuse
- Card Name: Cheren’s Care
- Card Number: 177
- Set: Brilliant Stars (swsh9)
- Type: Supporter
- Stage: Supporter
- Retreat Cost: 0
- Regulation Mark: F
- Illustrator: Ryuta Fuse
- Image:
Key Printings

Cheren’s Care appears exclusively in Brilliant Stars as card 177. This single printing is the Rare Rainbow variant, prized for its striking finish and collector appeal among Supporter cards.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants. It is identified as swsh9-177 with a Rare Rainbow rarity. The regulation mark F denotes its tournament-era classification.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown

Cheren’s Care lets you return one of your damaged Colorless Pokémon and all attached cards to your hand, enabling a tactical reset. As with all Supporters, you may play only one Supporter card during your turn.

Care & Storage Tips
- Use a fitted sleeve to protect the rainbow finish and surface texture.
- Store away from sunlight and moisture to prevent fading and warping.
- For long-term storage or transport, consider a top-loader or rigid case.
Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Debuts as a Rare Rainbow Supporter featuring a healing-style recovery effect and eye-catching artwork. The set’s vibrant design philosophy helps this card stand out for both rarity and utility.
This guide covers all known details for Cheren’s Care from the provided data. Additional information such as release date and flavor text remains unknown.

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