Tag: Pokemon TCG

Collector’s Guide: Zarude V (Brilliant Stars #16)
Zarude V Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Zarude V from Brilliant Stars is a Rare Holo V with 220 HP and the hard-hitting Jungle Rage attack, making it a striking addition to any collection. Numbered 16 in the set, it stands out for its vivid design, solid stats, and aggressive attack profile.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 16 Rare Holo V 220 5ban Graphics
- Type: Grass
- Stage: Basic, V
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Weakness: Fire ×2
- Regulation Mark: F
- Attacks:
- Leap to Leap: Deals 30 damage and also hits one of your opponent’s Benched Pokémon for 30 damage (no Weakness or Resistance applied).
- Jungle Rage: Deals 120+ damage, with an additional 120 damage if the opponent’s Active Pokémon is a Pokémon V.
- Rules: V rule applies—when your Pokémon V is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.
Key Printings

This exact printing is from Brilliant Stars, number 16, classified as a Rare Holo V, illustrated by 5ban Graphics, and marked with regulation F.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants. It can be identified by the set code “swsh9-16,” its unique 5ban Graphics artwork, and its Rare Holo V treatment.

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 5ban Graphics artwork, store Zarude V 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: Introduces Zarude V as a powerful Grass-type Basic Pokémon with strong attacks and high HP, making it a notable addition for collectors and players focusing on Grass decks.
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October 1, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Whimsicott V (Brilliant Stars #160)
Whimsicott V Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Whimsicott V from the Brilliant Stars set is a Rare Ultra Basic Pokémon V with 190 HP. It features the attack Cotton Guard, adding strategic depth to gameplay. This vibrant card is numbered 160 in the set.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 160 Rare Ultra 190 Saki Hayashiro
- Type: Psychic
- Stage: Basic,V
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Metal ×2
- Regulation Mark: F
- Rules: V rule applies (opponent takes 2 Prize cards if knocked out)
- Attacks:
- Fluff Gets in the Way: Prevents Basic Defending Pokémon from attacking next turn; deals 20 damage.
- Cotton Guard: Deals 90 damage and reduces damage taken by 30 during opponent’s next turn.
Key Printings

The only known printing of Whimsicott V is from the Brilliant Stars set, card number 160. It is a Rare Ultra rarity card, making it a desirable find for collectors focusing on high-rarity cards from the Sword & Shield series.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include its Psychic type, 190 HP, and the illustrator Saki Hayashiro. The card’s regulation mark is F, and it carries the V subtype, indicating it is a Basic Pokémon V.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. It features the V rule, meaning if Whimsicott V is knocked out, the opponent takes 2 Prize cards. Its attacks provide tactical options for controlling the opponent’s Basic Pokémon and mitigating damage.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the vibrant illustration and maintain card condition, store Whimsicott V in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets to prevent bending or surface wear. Handle with clean hands to avoid oils or dirt damaging the card surface.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Brilliant Stars: Whimsicott V debuts as a Rare Ultra card with strong HP and versatile Psychic-type attacks. It adds strategic depth to decks focusing on disruption and damage mitigation.
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October 1, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Honchkrow V (Brilliant Stars #161)
Honchkrow V Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Honchkrow V from Brilliant Stars is a Rare Ultra Basic Pokémon V with 200 HP. It showcases the Boss Pockets Ability and the Fearsome Shadow attack, making card number 161 a standout pull for collectors.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 161 Rare Ultra 200 PLANETA Mochizuki
- Type: Darkness
- Stage: Basic,V
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Lightning ×2
- Resistance: Fighting -30
- Ability: Boss Pockets — Allows up to 4 Pokémon Tools attached; if lost, discard until only 1 remains
- Attack: Fearsome Shadow — Deals 130 damage and forces opponent to reveal their hand
- V Rule: When knocked out, opponent takes 2 Prize cards
Key Printings

Focuses on the Brilliant Stars printing of Honchkrow V (card 161), a Rare Ultra featuring Boss Pockets and the Fearsome Shadow attack.

Variants & Identifiers

No known print variants. Identified by set code “swsh9-161” and regulation mark “F.” Card image: /images/swsh9/swsh9-161.jpg.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
Follows the standard V rule: if Honchkrow V is Knocked Out, the opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

Care & Storage Tips

Use a protective sleeve, avoid sunlight and moisture, and prevent bending or scratches to preserve condition and artwork.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Brilliant Stars: Introduced Honchkrow V with an Ability that allows multiple Pokémon Tools, expanding strategic options. The set highlights high HP and impactful attacks for Darkness-type Pokémon.
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October 1, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Honchkrow V (Brilliant Stars #162)
Honchkrow V Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Honchkrow V is a Rare Ultra card from the Brilliant Stars set, numbered 162. This Darkness-type Basic V has 200 HP, features the Ability Boss Pockets, and attacks with Fearsome Shadow for tactical disruption.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 162 Rare Ultra 200 zig
- Type: Darkness
- Stage: Basic, V
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Lightning ×2
- Resistance: Fighting -30
- Regulation Mark: F
- Rules: V rule applies—when this Pokémon V is Knocked Out, opponent takes 2 Prize cards.
Key Printings

The only known printing of Honchkrow V is from the Brilliant Stars expansion, card number 162. It is classified as a Rare Ultra, making it a desirable card for collectors focused on this set or Darkness-type Pokémon.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card.
- Identifiers: set code swsh9-162, distinctive artwork by zig.
- Distinguishing traits: the Ability Boss Pockets and the attack Fearsome Shadow.
Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
- Ability — Boss Pockets: Allows up to four Pokémon Tools to be attached, enabling flexible builds.
- Attack — Fearsome Shadow: Costs two Darkness and one Colorless energy, deals significant damage, and reveals the opponent’s hand for strategic insight.
- V rule: Opponent takes 2 Prize cards when Honchkrow V is Knocked Out.
Care & Storage Tips

Protect the card in a sleeve, keep it away from sunlight and moisture, and handle with clean hands. Given its Rare Ultra rarity, use a rigid top-loader or binder pages to prevent edge wear and surface scratches.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Brilliant Stars: Honchkrow V debuts as a powerful Darkness-type Basic V with a unique Ability that enhances tool attachment flexibility and a high-damage attack that disrupts opponents’ strategies. This set highlights its strategic potential and striking design.
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October 1, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Zamazenta V (Brilliant Stars #163)
Zamazenta V Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Zamazenta V from the Brilliant Stars set is a Rare Ultra card with 220 HP, featuring the ability Regal Stance and the attack Revenge Blast. This striking Basic V is numbered 163 in the set.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 163 Rare Ultra 220 Ayaka Yoshida
- Type: Metal
- Stage: Basic, V
- Ability: Regal Stance — discard your hand and draw 5 cards, but your turn ends
- Attack: Revenge Blast — 120+ damage, does 30 more damage for each Prize card opponent has taken
- Weakness: Fire ×2
- Resistance: Grass -30
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Rules: V rule applies — when your Pokémon V is Knocked Out, opponent takes 2 Prize cards
Key Printings

The key printing of Zamazenta V is from the Brilliant Stars expansion, card number 163. This printing is a Rare Ultra rarity and is distinguished by its high HP and powerful ability and attack combination.

Variants & Identifiers
- No known print variants for this exact printing
- Set code: swsh9-163
- Regulation mark: F
- Market reference query: “Zamazenta V Brilliant Stars 163.”
- Image: /images/swsh9/swsh9-163.jpg
Legality & Play Notes

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

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the card’s vibrant artwork and condition, store Zamazenta V 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): Zamazenta V debuts as a powerful Basic V Pokémon with a unique hand-refreshing Ability and a damage-scaling attack, adding strategic depth to Metal-type decks.
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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: Whimsicott VSTAR (Brilliant Stars #175)
Whimsicott VSTAR Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Whimsicott VSTAR from the Brilliant Stars set is a Rare Rainbow card numbered 175. This vibrant Pokémon boasts 250 HP and features the dynamic attack Trick Wind. Its striking design and powerful stats make it a notable addition to any collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 175 Rare Rainbow 250 5ban Graphics
- Type: Psychic
- Stage: VSTAR
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Metal ×2
- Resistance: None
- Regulation Mark: F
- Rules: VSTAR rule applies – when knocked out, opponent takes 2 Prize cards
Key Printings

The key printing of Whimsicott VSTAR is from the Brilliant Stars expansion (set code swsh9), numbered 175. This printing is a Rare Rainbow variant, known for its shimmering foil treatment that enhances the card’s visual appeal.

Variants & Identifiers

This card has no known print variants. It can be identified by its unique card number (175), Rare Rainbow rarity, and the illustrator credit to 5ban Graphics. The Psychic type and VSTAR subtype further distinguish it within the Brilliant Stars set.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality

Legality: unknown

Play Notes

Whimsicott VSTAR features two attacks: “Trick Wind,” which prevents opponents from playing Pokémon Tool or Special Energy cards during their next turn, and “Fluffball Star,” a VSTAR Power that deals damage based on the Energy attached to Whimsicott VSTAR. The VSTAR rule means that knocking out this Pokémon awards the opponent two Prize cards, a critical strategic consideration.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the card’s Rare Rainbow foil finish and maintain its value, store Whimsicott VSTAR in a protective sleeve and keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid bending or scratching the card by using rigid top loaders or binders designed for premium cards.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Whimsicott VSTAR debuts as a powerful Psychic-type VSTAR card with strong attacks and a high HP pool, packaged in a visually stunning Rare Rainbow foil variant. This set highlights its strategic utility and collector appeal.
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October 1, 2025