Tag: Collector’s Guide

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
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: 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