Tag: Collector’s Guide

  • Collector’s Guide: Arceus VSTAR (Brilliant Stars #123)

    Collector’s Guide: Arceus VSTAR (Brilliant Stars #123)

    Arceus VSTAR Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Arceus VSTAR from Brilliant Stars is a Rare Holo VSTAR with 280 HP, featuring the VSTAR Power Starbirth and the hard-hitting Trinity Nova attack. It is card number 123 in the set.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 123 Rare Holo VSTAR 280 5ban Graphics
    • Card Number: 123
    • Set: Brilliant Stars (swsh9)
    • Stage: VSTAR (evolves from Arceus V)
    • Type: Colorless
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Rules: When your Pokémon VSTAR is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from Sword & Shield—Brilliant Stars, identified by set code swsh9-123. It is a Rare Holo VSTAR notable for the VSTAR ability Starbirth, which lets you search your deck for up to 2 cards during your turn.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by number 123 in Brilliant Stars and carries regulation mark F. Illustrator: 5ban Graphics. The card image can be found at /images/swsh9/swsh9-123.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • According to the provided data, this card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited.
    • VSTAR Rule: Knocking it out awards your opponent 2 Prize cards—a key strategic consideration.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the rare holo finish and 5ban Graphics artwork, store in a sleeve and keep away from 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 Arceus VSTAR as a powerful Colorless-type VSTAR card with a strong ability and attack, enhancing deck search capabilities and energy acceleration. This set is known for its high-impact VSTAR cards and dynamic gameplay mechanics.

    swsh9-123

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    Arceus VSTAR (Brilliant Stars) #123

  • Collector’s Guide: Blunder Policy (Brilliant Stars #131)

    Collector’s Guide: Blunder Policy (Brilliant Stars #131)

    Blunder Policy Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Blunder Policy is an Uncommon Trainer card from the Brilliant Stars set, numbered 131. It offers strategic value as a versatile support option and adds depth to gameplay choices.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 131 Uncommon Ayaka Yoshida
    • Card ID: swsh9-131
    • Type: Item, Pokémon Tool
    • Stage: Item, Pokémon Tool
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Regulation Mark: E
    • Series: Sword & Shield
    • Weaknesses: None
    • Resistances: None
    • Evolves From: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Image:
      swsh9-131

    Key Printings

    Blunder Policy appears exclusively in the Brilliant Stars expansion of the Sword & Shield series. This printing is noted for its clean design and strategic in-game effect, making it a solid pickup for collectors focused on Pokémon Tool cards.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by set code swsh9-131 and regulation mark E. The illustrator, Ayaka Yoshida, is a key identifier for artwork-focused collectors.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    Rules associated with this card include:
    – If the Pokémon this card is attached to uses an attack, and you flip any coins for damage or effect, if any are tails, draw 3 cards at the end of your turn.
    – You may play any number of Item cards during your turn.
    – Attach a Pokémon Tool to 1 of your Pokémon that doesn’t already have a Pokémon Tool attached.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store the card in a protective sleeve, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its uncommon rarity and distinct artwork, preserving surface integrity supports long-term value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Introduced Blunder Policy as an uncommon Pokémon Tool, emphasizing strategic coin-flip mechanics and card-draw synergy within the Sword & Shield series.

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    Blunder Policy (Brilliant Stars) #131

  • Collector’s Guide: Boss’s Orders (Brilliant Stars #132)

    Collector’s Guide: Boss’s Orders (Brilliant Stars #132)

    Boss’s Orders (Brilliant Stars 132) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Boss’s Orders is a Rare Holo from the Brilliant Stars set, numbered 132. Its striking design and strategic utility make it a notable pickup for collectors focused on this vibrant Sword & Shield expansion.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 132 Rare Holo GIDORA
    • Card ID: swsh9-132
    • Stage: Supporter
    • Subtypes: Supporter
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Series: Sword & Shield
    • Pokémon: Boss’s Orders
    • Evolves From: None
    • Types: None
    • Weaknesses: None
    • Resistances: None

    Key Printings

    This exact printing appears in Brilliant Stars as card number 132. It is a rare holo variant, making it visually appealing and sought after by collectors focused on the Sword & Shield series.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by set code “swsh9” and number “132,” with illustrator credit to GIDORA.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    Rules: Switch 1 of your opponent’s Benched Pokémon with their Active Pokémon. You may play only 1 Supporter card during your turn.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the rare holo finish and artwork, store the card 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 scratches.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars: This set includes the Boss’s Orders Supporter card as a rare holo, adding strategic depth with its switching effect and enhancing the collection with its striking GIDORA illustration. Release date is unknown.

    Boss's Orders (Brilliant Stars) #132

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    Boss's Orders (Brilliant Stars) #132

  • Collector’s Guide: Minccino (Brilliant Stars #124)

    Collector’s Guide: Minccino (Brilliant Stars #124)

    Minccino (Brilliant Stars 124) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Minccino from the Brilliant Stars set is a common card numbered 124. It has 60 HP and features the straightforward attack Pound. This charming Pokémon offers a simple yet effective option for collectors and players alike.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 124 Common 60 Mina Nakai
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: F

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Minccino appears in the Sword & Shield Brilliant Stars expansion as card number 124. It is a common rarity card with no evolutions printed on this card.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Minccino card. It can be identified by its set code “swsh9-124” and the Brilliant Stars logo. The illustration by Mina Nakai is a distinctive feature.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is currently not 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. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface, especially since it is a common card that may be more widely circulated.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Introduced Minccino as a Basic, Colorless-type Pokémon with two attacks: “Call for Family,” which allows benching up to two Basic Pokémon from the deck, and “Pound,” dealing 10 damage. The set features clean, detailed artwork by Mina Nakai and includes this card as number 124.

    Minccino (Brilliant Stars) #124

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    Minccino (Brilliant Stars) #124

  • Collector’s Guide: Cinccino (Brilliant Stars #125)

    Collector’s Guide: Cinccino (Brilliant Stars #125)

    Cinccino (Brilliant Stars 125) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Cinccino from the Brilliant Stars set is an uncommon card numbered 125. It features 90 HP and the attack Triple Axel. This card offers a straightforward addition for collectors seeking balanced gameplay options.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 125 Uncommon 90 Atsuko Nishida
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Minccino)
    • Attacks:
    • Slap: 40 damage, costs 1 Colorless energy
    • Triple Axel: Flip 3 coins; does 50 damage for each heads, costs 2 Colorless energies
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Flavor Text: Its body secretes oil that this Pokémon spreads over its nest as a coating to protect it from dust. Cinccino won’t tolerate even a speck of the stuff.

    Key Printings

    This Cinccino card is from the Sword & Shield series, specifically the Brilliant Stars set. It is an Uncommon rarity card, numbered 125 in the set, featuring artwork by Atsuko Nishida.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No print variants are listed for this card. It can be identified by its set code “swsh9-125” and the regulation mark “F.” The card’s image is available at /images/swsh9/swsh9-125.jpg. Market references list it under “Cinccino Brilliant Stars 125.”

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store in a protective sleeve, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface to preserve the illustration and overall condition—particularly useful for an Uncommon that may appeal to collectors.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars: This set includes Cinccino as a Stage 1 Colorless Pokémon with balanced HP and flexible attacks. It fits well into decks requiring consistent Colorless energy attackers with coin-flip mechanics. The set’s artwork and design emphasize clean, vibrant aesthetics, exemplified by this Cinccino card.

    This guide covers the exact printing of Cinccino from Brilliant Stars, providing collectors and players with essential details for identification and care.

    Cinccino (Brilliant Stars) #125

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    Cinccino (Brilliant Stars) #125

  • Collector’s Guide: Tornadus (Brilliant Stars #126)

    Collector’s Guide: Tornadus (Brilliant Stars #126)

    Tornadus Collector’s Guide: Brilliant Stars #126

    Character Intro

    Tornadus from the Brilliant Stars set is a Rare card with 120 HP. It features the dynamic ability Sudden Cyclone and the powerful attack Blasting Wind. This card holds number 126 in the set, making it a notable addition for collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 126 Rare 120 Shigenori Negishi
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Resistance: Fighting -30
    • Regulation Mark: F

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Tornadus appears in the Sword & Shield series set “Brilliant Stars” with the set code swsh9. It is a rare card, numbered 126 in the set.

    Ability — Sudden Cyclone

    When you play Tornadus onto your Bench, you may switch your opponent’s Active Pokémon with one of their Benched Pokémon.

    Attack — Blasting Wind

    Blasting Wind deals 100 damage for three Colorless Energy, though the attack text is unspecified.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • No known print variants for this card.
    • Identified by set code swsh9 and number 126.
    • Artwork by Shigenori Negishi is a distinctive feature.
    • Classified as a Basic Pokémon with the subtype “Basic” and carries regulation mark F.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a rare card with unknown release date and no variants, preserving condition is essential. Store it in a protective sleeve, away from direct sunlight and moisture, and avoid bending or scratching to maintain artwork and structural integrity.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): This set includes the Tornadus card as a rare Basic Pokémon with a unique ability that can disrupt your opponent’s strategy. The set is part of the Sword & Shield series and features artwork by Shigenori Negishi. The card’s regulation mark F places it within a specific rotation, though its exact release date is unknown.

    Tornadus (Brilliant Stars) #126

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    Tornadus (Brilliant Stars) #126

  • Collector’s Guide: Hawlucha (Brilliant Stars #127)

    Collector’s Guide: Hawlucha (Brilliant Stars #127)

    Hawlucha (Brilliant Stars 127) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Hawlucha from the Brilliant Stars set is a nimble Pokémon card with 70 HP. This Common card features the attack Cross-Cut, offering straightforward gameplay. Numbered 127, it fits neatly into any collection seeking versatile fighters.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 127 Common 70 Miki Tanaka
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Resistance: Fighting -30
    • Regulation Mark: F

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the Hawlucha card from the Sword & Shield Brilliant Stars set, card number 127.

    • Showboating Pose: Attach up to 2 basic Energy cards from the discard pile to a Benched Pokémon.
    • Cross-Cut: Deals 30 damage, plus an additional 30 if the opponent’s Active Pokémon is an Evolution Pokémon.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by the set code “swsh9” and the card ID “swsh9-127.” The card is a Common rarity with no evolutions from previous stages.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vibrant artwork by Miki Tanaka and maintain card condition, store this card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Common rarity, it is accessible but still benefits from careful handling to avoid wear.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Includes this Hawlucha as a Basic Colorless Pokémon with versatile energy attachment and damage-dealing attacks, emphasizing agility and tactical play. The card’s regulation mark is F, aligning it with other cards from this series.

    Hawlucha (Brilliant Stars) #127

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    Hawlucha (Brilliant Stars) #127

  • Collector’s Guide: Drampa V (Brilliant Stars #128)

    Collector’s Guide: Drampa V (Brilliant Stars #128)

    Drampa V Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Drampa V from the Brilliant Stars set is a Rare Holo V card with 210 HP. It features the dynamic attack Dragon Pulse and is numbered 128 in its set.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 128 Rare Holo V 210 aky CG Works
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic,V
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • 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 guide focuses exclusively on the Drampa V card from the Brilliant Stars set, identified by card number 128. It features two attacks:
    – Spike Draw — deals 20 damage and lets you draw 2 cards.
    – Dragon Pulse — a powerful 160-damage attack that requires discarding the top 2 cards of your deck.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by the set code swsh9 and the card number 128. The card’s rarity is Rare Holo V, and it carries the regulation mark F. The illustrator credit goes to aky CG Works. The card image can be found at /images/swsh9/swsh9-128.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    Note that the card follows the standard V rule: when your Pokémon V is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards. This card is not currently listed as legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vibrant holo finish and detailed artwork by aky CG Works, store Drampa V in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card to maintain its collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Drampa V appears as a powerful Basic V card with a strong HP pool and two versatile attacks, fitting well into Colorless-type decks. This set is known for its striking holofoil treatments and dynamic artwork styles.

    Drampa V (Brilliant Stars) #128

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    Drampa V (Brilliant Stars) #128

  • Collector’s Guide: Acerola’s Premonition (Brilliant Stars #129)

    Collector’s Guide: Acerola’s Premonition (Brilliant Stars #129)

    Acerola’s Premonition: A Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Acerola’s Premonition is an Uncommon card from the Brilliant Stars set, numbered 129. Its design captures the mysterious aura of Acerola, adding depth to any collection. This card stands out with its intriguing artwork and thematic presence.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 129 Uncommon Shiburingaru
    • Card Number: 129
    • Set Code: swsh9
    • Stage: Supporter
    • Subtypes: Supporter
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Regulation Mark: E
    • Types: None specified
    • Weaknesses/Resistances: None
    • Abilities/Attacks: None
    • Rules: Your opponent reveals their hand, and you draw a card for each Trainer card you find there. You may play only 1 Supporter card during your turn.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Acerola’s Premonition appears solely in the Brilliant Stars expansion of the Sword & Shield series. It is identified by the set code swsh9-129 and is classified as an Uncommon rarity card.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No print variants are documented for this card. The illustrator credit goes to Shiburingaru, which can help verify authenticity and edition. The card’s regulation mark is E, useful for distinguishing legality in tournament play.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its effect provides strategic hand insight by revealing the opponent’s hand and drawing cards based on Trainer cards found, and only one Supporter card may be played per turn.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s condition, store Acerola’s Premonition in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its uncommon rarity and unique artwork, maintaining sharp edges and vibrant colors will help retain its collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Acerola’s Premonition debuts as a Supporter card with a tactical hand-revealing effect. It complements the set’s focus on strategic Trainer cards and features artwork by Shiburingaru. No other printings or variants are known.

    Acerola's Premonition (Brilliant Stars) #129

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    Acerola's Premonition (Brilliant Stars) #129

  • Collector’s Guide: Shaymin V (Brilliant Stars #13)

    Collector’s Guide: Shaymin V (Brilliant Stars #13)

    Shaymin V Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Shaymin V from the Brilliant Stars set is a Rare Holo V card numbered 13. It features 190 HP and the standout attack Revenge Blast. Its vibrant, sleek artwork makes it a notable addition for collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 13 Rare Holo V 190 Satoshi Shirai
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Basic, V
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Attacks:
    • Flap (30 damage, costs 1 Grass)
    • Revenge Blast (60+ damage, costs 1 Grass + 1 Colorless; does 40 more damage for each Prize card your opponent has taken)
    • Rules: V rule applies—when your Pokémon V is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Abilities: None

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Brilliant Stars set (card number 13). It is a Rare Holo V with artwork by Satoshi Shirai and carries regulation mark F.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward via its set code (swsh9-13), rarity, and illustrator credit. The card’s image can be referenced at: /images/swsh9/swsh9-13.jpg.

    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, which means knocking out this Pokémon V grants your opponent two Prize cards.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the holofoil and artwork, store the card 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 scratches, and avoid excessive handling.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars: This set introduced Shaymin V as a Rare Holo V card with strong Grass-type attacks and a high HP pool. It stands out due to its unique Revenge Blast attack that scales with the opponent’s Prize cards taken, adding strategic depth.

    Shaymin V (Brilliant Stars) #13

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    Shaymin V (Brilliant Stars) #13