Tag: Brilliant Stars

Collector’s Guide: Prinplup (Brilliant Stars #36)
Prinplup Collectors Guide: Brilliant Stars #36

Character Intro

Prinplup from Brilliant Stars is an Uncommon card (#36) with 90 HP and the attack Peck. A straightforward, reliable pick for both collectors and casual players.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 36 Uncommon 90 Kagemaru Himeno
- Type: Water
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Piplup)
- Attack: Peck (30 damage, costs 1 Water energy)
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Lightning ×2
- Resistance: None
- Regulation Mark: F
- Flavor Text: “It lives a solitary life. Its wings deliver wicked blows that can snap even the thickest of trees.”
- Image URL: /images/swsh9/swsh9-36.jpg
Key Printings

This exact printing of Prinplup appears in the Brilliant Stars set, identified as card number 36. It features no special abilities, focusing instead on a single attack, Peck, which deals 30 damage. The card’s Uncommon rarity and clean design make it a staple for collectors of the Sword & Shield era.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include its set code “swsh9,” regulation mark “F,” and the illustrator credit to Kagemaru Himeno. The card’s simple layout and single Water energy attack make it easily recognizable among other Prinplup cards.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality status: unknown.
- This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
- Its straightforward attack and moderate HP suggest it is more suited for casual play or collection rather than competitive tournament use.
Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the vibrant artwork and maintain card condition, store this Prinplup in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Uncommon rarity, keeping it in a binder or top-loader is recommended to avoid edge wear and surface scratches.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Prinplup #36 is a solid Stage 1 Water-type with a single reliable attack. It fits well into collections emphasizing the Sword & Shield series and showcases the detailed illustration style of Kagemaru Himeno. No special abilities or variants are present, making it a straightforward collectible from this set.
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October 1, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Empoleon (Brilliant Stars #37)
Empoleon (Brilliant Stars 37) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Empoleon from the Brilliant Stars set is a Rare Holo card numbered 37. This Stage 2 Water-type boasts 160 HP and features the ability Emergency Surfacing. Its attack, Water Arrow, adds a tactical edge to gameplay.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 37 Rare Holo 160 Kouki Saitou
- Type: Water
- Stage: Stage 2
- Evolves From: Prinplup
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Weakness: Lightning ×2
- Resistance: None
- Regulation Mark: F
Ability and Attack
- Ability — Emergency Surfacing: If you have no cards in hand, Empoleon can return from the discard pile to the Bench and you draw 3 cards, which can be strategically valuable in casual play.
- Attack — Water Arrow: Offers targeted pressure that complements its utility-focused ability.
Key Printings

This Empoleon card is from the Sword & Shield series, specifically the Brilliant Stars set (swsh9). It is a Rare Holo variant, making it a desirable piece for collectors who focus on holofoil cards from this set.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by its card number 37 in the Brilliant Stars set and the unique artwork by Kouki Saitou. The card’s ability, Emergency Surfacing, and its Water Arrow attack are signature features.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
  Its ability allows it to return from the discard pile to the Bench if you have no cards in hand, drawing 3 cards, which can be strategically valuable in casual play.
Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the card’s Rare Holo finish and vibrant artwork, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface to maintain its collector value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Brilliant Stars (swsh9): This set features Empoleon as a powerful Stage 2 Water-type with a unique ability and a solid 160 HP, emphasizing strategic play and collector appeal. The card’s design and holofoil rarity make it a standout in the set.
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October 1, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Manaphy (Brilliant Stars #41)
Manaphy Collector’s Guide: Brilliant Stars #41

Character Intro

Manaphy from the Brilliant Stars set is a Rare card numbered 41 with 70 HP. It features the Ability Wave Veil and the attack Rain Splash, offering a blend of defensive bench protection and straightforward offense.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 41 Rare 70 HYOGONOSUKE
- Type: Water
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Lightning ×2
- Ability: Wave Veil — Prevents all damage done to your Benched Pokémon by attacks from your opponent’s Pokémon.
- Attack: Rain Splash — Deals 20 damage with a single Water energy.
- Flavor Text: “It starts its life with a wondrous power that permits it to bond with any kind of Pokémon.”
- Regulation Mark: F
- Illustrator: HYOGONOSUKE
- Image:
Key Printings

This guide focuses on the single known printing of Manaphy from the Brilliant Stars set, card number 41. It is classified as a Rare card and features no evolutions from previous forms.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this Manaphy card. Identifiers include its set code “swsh9” and regulation mark “F,” which can help distinguish it from other Manaphy cards.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality status: unknown. This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to available data.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the card’s vibrant artwork and rare status, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface to maintain its collector value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Introduced Manaphy as a Rare Basic Water-type with a unique ability to shield Benched Pokémon, emphasizing strategic bench protection in gameplay. The set’s regulation mark “F” places it in a specific competitive rotation, though this card’s legality remains unknown.
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October 1, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Cubchoo (Brilliant Stars #42)
Cubchoo (Brilliant Stars 42) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Cubchoo from the Brilliant Stars set is a Common Pokémon card numbered 42. It has 60 HP and features the attack Chilly. A straightforward addition to any collection with a cool design.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 42 Common 60 ryoma uratsuka
- Type: Water
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Metal ×2
- Resistance: None
- Regulation Mark: F
- Evolves From: None
- Abilities: None
- Attack: Chilly (Water) – 20 damage
- Flavor Text: When this Pokémon is in good health, its snot becomes thicker and stickier. It will smear its snot on anyone it doesn’t like.
- Illustrator: ryoma uratsuka
- Set: Brilliant Stars (swsh9)
- Card ID: swsh9-42
- Image:
Key Printings

This guide focuses on the Cubchoo card from the Brilliant Stars set, numbered 42. It is a Common rarity card, featuring a clean and simple design that highlights Cubchoo’s quirky nature.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this exact printing. Identifiers include the set code “swsh9,” regulation mark “F,” and the card number 42. The card is a Basic Water-type Pokémon with a single Water energy attack.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its straightforward attack and low HP suggest it is more suited for casual play or collection rather than competitive decks.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the card’s vibrant illustration by ryoma uratsuka, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface to maintain its condition and value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Cubchoo appears as a Common Basic Water-type Pokémon with a simple but effective attack. The set features this card without any special variants, making it a stable collectible for fans of the Sword & Shield series.
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October 1, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Beartic (Brilliant Stars #43)
Beartic (Brilliant Stars 43) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Beartic from the Brilliant Stars set is a sturdy Uncommon card with 140 HP. It features the powerful attack Frost Smash, adding a cool edge to any deck. This card is numbered 43 in the set, making it a solid choice for collectors and players alike.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 43 Uncommon 140 Rianti Hidayat
- Type: Water
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Cubchoo)
- Retreat Cost: 3
- Weakness: Metal ×2
- Resistance: None
- Regulation Mark: F
- Flavor Text: It swims through frigid seas, searching for prey. From its frozen breath, it forms icy fangs that are harder than steel.
Key Printings

This exact printing is from the Sword & Shield Brilliant Stars set, card number 43. It is an Uncommon rarity card illustrated by Rianti Hidayat.

Attacks
- Sheer Cold: Prevents the Defending Pokémon from attacking during the opponent’s next turn.
- Frost Smash: A powerful 130 damage attack.
Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this Beartic card. It can be identified by its set code “swsh9” and card number 43. The artwork and Water-type classification further distinguish this printing.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its gameplay utility includes a control attack that disables the opponent’s attack and a high-damage move, making it a versatile option in casual play.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, especially the illustrated front by Rianti Hidayat, to maintain its collector value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Introduced Beartic as a Water-type Stage 1 Pokémon with strong offensive and control capabilities. This set highlights dynamic artwork and strategic gameplay elements, with Beartic standing out due to its unique attacks and solid HP.
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October 1, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Eiscue (Brilliant Stars #44)
Eiscue Collectors Guide: Brilliant Stars #44

Character Intro

Eiscue from the Brilliant Stars set is a Rare card numbered 44 with 110 HP. This Water-type Basic with the Fusion Strike tag showcases the crisp, straightforward power of Icicle Missile, making it a clean, collectible option with striking artwork and solid stats.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 44 Rare 110 nagimiso
- Type: Water
- Stage: Basic, Fusion Strike
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Metal ×2
- Abilities: None
- Attacks:
- Block Slider: Deals 40 damage to one of your opponent’s Pokémon for each Fusion Strike Energy attached to all your Pokémon.
- Icicle Missile: Deals 100 damage.
- Flavor Text: The hair on its head connects to the surface of its brain. When this Pokémon has something on its mind, its hair chills the air around it.
- Regulation Mark: E
- Set Code: swsh9
- Card ID: swsh9-44
Key Printings

The key printing of Eiscue is from the Sword & Shield Brilliant Stars expansion, card number 44. This Rare card features the Fusion Strike subtype and is illustrated by nagimiso. No release date is currently known.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this exact printing of Eiscue. It is identified by its set code swsh9 and card number 44. The card’s rarity is Rare, and it carries the Fusion Strike subtype.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
Its Fusion Strike subtype and Water typing may influence deck-building strategies, especially with Fusion Strike Energy synergy.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the card’s vibrant artwork and condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface to maintain its collector value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Brilliant Stars: Introduced Eiscue as a Basic Fusion Strike Water-type with unique attacks that leverage Fusion Strike Energy. This set highlights synergy and strategic energy attachment, with Eiscue’s Block Slider attack scaling damage accordingly.
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October 1, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Raichu V (Brilliant Stars #45)
Raichu V Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Raichu V from the Brilliant Stars set is a Rare Holo V card numbered 45. With a vibrant 200 HP, it’s a sturdy Basic V that brings energy and tempo to the board, highlighted by the powerful attack Dynamic Spark.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 45 Rare Holo V 200 MUGENUP
- Type: Lightning
- Stage: Basic, V
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Regulation Mark: F
- Rules: V rule applies—when your Pokémon V is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.
Key Printings

This printing appears in the Brilliant Stars expansion of the Sword & Shield series. It is numbered 45 and classified as a Rare Holo V card. The MUGENUP artwork is vivid and energetic, capturing Raichu’s electric nature.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by its set code “swsh9-45” and its distinctive holographic Rare Holo V rarity. The card’s image is available at /images/swsh9/swsh9-45.jpg.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
- Fast Charge enables energy attachment on the first turn if you go first, helping jump-start your board.
- Dynamic Spark scales damage based on discarded Lightning Energy, letting you convert hand or board resources into burst damage.
- The V rule applies, so being Knocked Out gives your opponent 2 Prize cards—plan your trades accordingly.
Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the holographic finish and maintain value, store the card in a sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets to prevent bending and surface scratches.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Introduced Raichu V as a powerful Lightning-type Basic V with energy acceleration and scalable damage attacks. This set is known for its vibrant artwork and strategic V Pokémon cards.
This Raichu V printing remains a notable collectible for fans of the Lightning type and the Brilliant Stars set.

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October 1, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Electabuzz (Brilliant Stars #46)
Electabuzz Collector’s Guide: Brilliant Stars #46

Character Intro

Electabuzz (#46) from the Brilliant Stars set is a Common Basic Lightning-type with 80 HP. It offers straightforward gameplay, highlighted by the electric-themed Head Bolt.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 46 Common 80 OKACHEKE
- Type: Lightning
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Resistance: None
- Regulation Mark: F
- Set Code: swsh9
- Series: Sword & Shield
Key Printings
- Printed in the Brilliant Stars expansion of the Sword & Shield series.
- Attacks:
- Thunder Wave: Can paralyze the opponent’s Active Pokémon on a coin flip.
- Head Bolt: Deals 30 damage.
- No abilities.
Variants & Identifiers

No known print variants. Identified as card number 46 in Brilliant Stars with artwork by OKACHEKE. Rarity: Common.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- This card 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 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 (swsh9): Electabuzz appears as a Basic Lightning-type Pokémon with moderate HP and straightforward attacks, fitting well into casual and collector decks. The set’s regulation mark is F, but the card’s tournament legality is unknown.
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October 1, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Electivire (Brilliant Stars #47)
Electivire Collector’s Guide: Brilliant Stars #47

Character Intro

Electivire from the Brilliant Stars set is a rare card boasting 140 HP. This dynamic Pokémon features the powerful attack Explosive Bolt. As card number 47, it offers collectors a striking addition to their collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 47 Rare 140 AKIRA EGAWA
- Type: Lightning
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Electabuzz)
- Retreat Cost: 3
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Resistances: None
- Regulation Mark: F
- Flavor Text: The amount of electrical energy this Pokémon produces is proportional to the rate of its pulse. The voltage jumps while Electivire is battling.
Key Printings

This guide focuses on the Electivire card from the Sword & Shield Brilliant Stars set, card number 47. It is a rare card featuring two attacks:
- Explosive Bolt: Deals increased damage if any of your benched Magmortar have damage counters.
- High-Voltage Current: Damages all of your opponent’s Pokémon.
Variants & Identifiers
- No known print variants for this Electivire.
- Set code: “swsh9”; card number: 47 within Brilliant Stars.
- Artwork by AKIRA EGAWA; regulation mark: “F.”
Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data. Players should verify current tournament rules before use.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the vibrant artwork and maintain card condition, store this Electivire card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity, consider using a top loader or a binder with rigid pages for long-term protection.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Brilliant Stars: Introduced this Electivire as a powerful Stage 1 Lightning-type with unique attacks that interact strategically with benched Magmortar, enhancing gameplay depth. The set is known for its dynamic Pokémon and striking illustrations by artists like AKIRA EGAWA.
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October 1, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Raikou V (Brilliant Stars #48)
Raikou V Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Raikou V from the Brilliant Stars set is a Rare Holo V card numbered 48. It has 200 HP, the Fleet-Footed ability, and the Lightning Rondo attack.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 48 Rare Holo V 200 PLANETA Mochizuki
- Card ID: swsh9-48
- Type: Lightning
- Stage: Basic,V
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Regulation Mark: F
- Evolves From: None
- Flavor Text: Unknown
Key Printings

This exact printing appears in the Sword & Shield Brilliant Stars expansion. It is a Basic Pokémon card with:
- Ability — Fleet-Footed: Once during your turn, if Raikou V is Active, you may draw a card.
- Attack — Lightning Rondo: Deals 20 base damage plus 20 more for each Benched Pokémon on either side, making it strong in bench-heavy matchups.
Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by the set code “swsh9” and card number 48. The card’s rarity is Rare Holo V, and it features the regulation mark “F,” which helps collectors and players identify its legality and rotation status.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card follows the standard V rule: when your Pokémon V is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards. Its on-board draw and scaling damage with benched Pokémon make it a flexible option, though its exact tournament viability is unknown.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the vibrant holofoil and artwork by PLANETA Mochizuki, store Raikou V 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 and surface scratches.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Introduced Raikou V as a powerful Lightning-type Basic Pokémon with a unique ability to draw cards and an attack that rewards bench presence. This set is known for its Rare Holo V cards and dynamic artwork styles.
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October 1, 2025