Tag: sword_shield

  • Collector’s Guide: Charizard VSTAR (Brilliant Stars #18)

    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.

    swsh9-18

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    Charizard VSTAR (Brilliant Stars) #18

  • Collector’s Guide: Roseanne’s Backup (Brilliant Stars #180)

    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:
      swsh9-180

    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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    Roseanne's Backup (Brilliant Stars) #180

  • Collector’s Guide: Galarian Articuno V (Brilliant Stars #181)

    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.

    swsh9-181

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    Galarian Articuno V (Brilliant Stars) #181

  • Collector’s Guide: Galarian Zapdos V (Brilliant Stars #182)

    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.

    swsh9-182

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    Galarian Zapdos V (Brilliant Stars) #182

  • Collector’s Guide: Galarian Moltres V (Brilliant Stars #183)

    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.

    swsh9-183

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    Galarian Moltres V (Brilliant Stars) #183

  • 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: 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: 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: 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: 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