Tag: Collector’s Guide

  • 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

  • Collector’s Guide: Chimchar (Brilliant Stars #24)

    Collector’s Guide: Chimchar (Brilliant Stars #24)

    Chimchar (Brilliant Stars 24) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Chimchar from the Brilliant Stars set is a Common card numbered 24. It features 50 HP and a single attack called Ember. This card offers a straightforward design for collectors seeking a classic Fire-type Pokémon.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 24 Common 50 Shin Nagasawa

    Card Stats

    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Attack: Ember (30 damage, discard an Energy)
    • Evolves From: None
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Series: Sword & Shield
    • Set Code: swsh9
    • Flavor Text: “The gas made in its belly burns from its rear end. The fire burns weakly when it feels sick.”
    • Image URL: /images/swsh9/swsh9-24.jpg

    Key Printings

    This Chimchar card is from the Brilliant Stars set, identified by the set code swsh9 and card number 24. It is a common rarity card featuring artwork by Shin Nagasawa. No alternate printings or special editions are noted for this exact printing.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Chimchar card. Key identifiers include its common rarity, the regulation mark F, and the single Fire-type Ember attack that requires discarding an Energy. The card’s straightforward design and modest HP make it easily recognizable within the Brilliant Stars set.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a common card with no noted variants, standard card care applies: store in a protective sleeve and keep away from moisture and direct sunlight to preserve the vibrant artwork by Shin Nagasawa. Given its common status, it is ideal for beginner collectors or those focusing on the Brilliant Stars set.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): This set features Chimchar as a Basic Fire-type Pokémon with a simple but effective Ember attack. The card’s flavor text and art emphasize Chimchar’s fiery nature and vulnerability, making it a charming addition to any collection focused on the Sword & Shield era.

    Chimchar (Brilliant Stars) #24

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    Chimchar (Brilliant Stars) #24

  • Collector’s Guide: Corphish (Brilliant Stars #32)

    Collector’s Guide: Corphish (Brilliant Stars #32)

    Corphish (Brilliant Stars 32) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Corphish from the Brilliant Stars set is a common card numbered 32. It has 70 HP and features the attack Crabhammer. This lively Pokémon brings a splash of aquatic energy to any deck.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 32 Common 70 Sekio
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Lightning (×2)
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Flavor Text: “No matter how dirty the water in the river, it will adapt and thrive. It has a strong will to survive.”
    • Attacks:
    • Water Gun (10 damage, 1 Colorless energy)
    • Crabhammer (50 damage, 1 Water + 2 Colorless energies)

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the Corphish card from the Brilliant Stars set, card number 32. It is a Common rarity card with no known alternate printings or special editions within this set.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • No known print variants for this Corphish card
    • Set code: “swsh9”
    • Card number: 32
    • Illustrator: Sekio
    • Regulation Mark: F

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This Corphish card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its simple attack set and moderate HP make it more suited for casual play or collection rather than competitive use.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vivid artwork and maintain card condition, store this Corphish card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching to keep the card’s value intact.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars: This set features Corphish as a Common Basic Water-type Pokémon with straightforward attacks and a resilient theme, illustrated by Sekio. The card fits well into collections focusing on Water-type Pokémon or the Brilliant Stars series.

    swsh9-32

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    Corphish (Brilliant Stars) #32

  • Collector’s Guide: Crawdaunt (Brilliant Stars #33)

    Collector’s Guide: Crawdaunt (Brilliant Stars #33)

    Crawdaunt Collectors Guide: Brilliant Stars #33

    Character Intro

    Crawdaunt from the Brilliant Stars set is an Uncommon Pokémon card numbered 33. With 130 HP, it’s a sturdy choice in battle. Crawdaunt’s attack, Crab Impact, delivers a powerful strike to opponents.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 33 Uncommon 130 Shibuzoh.
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Corphish)
    • Retreat Cost: 3 Colorless Energy
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Attacks:
    • Corkscrew Punch: 30 damage, costs 1 Colorless Energy
    • Crab Impact: 150 damage, costs 1 Water + 2 Colorless Energy, requires discarding 2 Energy from Crawdaunt

    Key Printings

    This exact Crawdaunt card appears in the Sword & Shield series set “Brilliant Stars” as card number 33. It is classified as an Uncommon rarity and features artwork by Shibuzoh. The card’s image can be viewed at /images/swsh9/swsh9-33.jpg.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Crawdaunt card. Key identifiers include its set code “swsh9” and regulation mark “F.” The card is recognized by its Water type, Stage 1 subtype, and the distinctive attacks “Corkscrew Punch” and “Crab Impact.”

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This Crawdaunt card is not currently listed as legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Players should verify tournament rules before including it in decks.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store the card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Uncommon rarity and detailed artwork, maintaining a flat, clean environment will help retain its value and visual appeal.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars: Crawdaunt #33 is featured as a solid Stage 1 Water-type with high HP and powerful attacks, fitting well into aggressive or energy-intensive strategies. Its inclusion in this set adds depth to Water-type decks with a balance of offense and durability.

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

    Crawdaunt (Brilliant Stars) #33

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    Crawdaunt (Brilliant Stars) #33

  • Collector’s Guide: Snorunt (Brilliant Stars #34)

    Collector’s Guide: Snorunt (Brilliant Stars #34)

    Snorunt Collector’s Guide: Brilliant Stars #34

    Character Intro

    Snorunt from the Brilliant Stars set is a Common card, number 34, with 60 HP. This chilly Pokémon features the attack Icy Snow, adding a frosty touch to your deck. Its straightforward design makes it a reliable choice for collectors and players alike.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 34 Common 60 HYOGONOSUKE
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Metal ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: E
    • Flavor Text: It can only survive in cold areas. It bounces happily around, even in environments as cold as -150 degrees Fahrenheit.

    Key Printings

    This exact Snorunt card is from the Sword & Shield Brilliant Stars set, numbered 34. It features two attacks: Ice Breath, which can paralyze the opponent’s Active Pokémon on a coin flip, and Icy Snow, dealing 20 damage. The card has no abilities and is classified as Common rarity.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Snorunt card. It is identified by the set code “swsh9” and card number 34. The illustrator credit goes to HYOGONOSUKE. The card image is available at /images/swsh9/swsh9-34.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality status: unknown.
    • This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
    • Players should verify tournament rules before including it in decks.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve this Common card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface, especially since it has a moderate retreat cost and could be of interest to collectors focusing on the Brilliant Stars set.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): This set features Snorunt as a Basic Water-type Pokémon with straightforward attacks and a cold-environment theme. It fits well into collections emphasizing Sword & Shield era cards and showcases the artistic style of HYOGONOSUKE.

    Snorunt (Brilliant Stars) #34

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    Snorunt (Brilliant Stars) #34

  • Collector’s Guide: Piplup (Brilliant Stars #35)

    Collector’s Guide: Piplup (Brilliant Stars #35)

    Piplup (Brilliant Stars #35) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Piplup (#35) from Brilliant Stars is a Common Water-type Basic with 60 HP and the attack Bubble. Its clean, approachable design and charming flavor make it an easy, budget-friendly pickup for Piplup fans and Brilliant Stars set builders.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 35 Common 60 Atsushi Furusawa
    • HP: 60
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Attack: Bubble — Deals 10 damage; flip a coin, if heads, the opponent’s Active Pokémon is Paralyzed.
    • Flavor Text: Because it is very proud, it hates accepting food from people. Its thick down guards it from cold.
    • Illustrator: Atsushi Furusawa
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Set Code: swsh9
    • Legality: unknown
    • Image:
      swsh9-35

    Key Printings

    This printing of Piplup appears in Brilliant Stars as card number 35. As a Common, it’s widely available for both collectors and players. Its single Water-type attack, Bubble, offers straightforward damage with a disruptive Paralyze chance.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identifiers include set code “swsh9,” regulation mark “F,” Common rarity, and the distinctive Atsushi Furusawa illustration.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality for this card is unknown based on the provided data.

    Care & Storage Tips

    • Use penny sleeves or a deck sleeve to prevent scuffs.
    • Store away from direct sunlight and moisture to avoid fading or warping.
    • Given its Common rarity, it’s great for casual play and beginning collections—still handle carefully to retain eye appeal.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars: Features Piplup as a Basic Water-type with a simple attack and charming flavor text—an on-theme addition for Sword & Shield era collections.

    This Piplup is a tidy inclusion for Brilliant Stars set completion and a fun pick for Water-type enthusiasts.

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    Piplup (Brilliant Stars) #35

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

    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.

    Prinplup (Brilliant Stars) #36

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    Prinplup (Brilliant Stars) #36

  • Collector’s Guide: Empoleon (Brilliant Stars #37)

    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.

    swsh9-37

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    Empoleon (Brilliant Stars) #37

  • Collector’s Guide: Buizel (Brilliant Stars #38)

    Collector’s Guide: Buizel (Brilliant Stars #38)

    Buizel (Brilliant Stars 38) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Buizel from the Brilliant Stars set is a common card numbered 38. It has 60 HP and features the attack Agility. This sleek Pokémon offers straightforward gameplay for collectors and players alike.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 38 Common 60 Tika Matsuno
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Flavor Text: It inflates the flotation sac around its neck and pokes its head out of the water to see what is going on.
    • Attack: Agility — Flip a coin; if heads, prevent all damage and effects of attacks done to this Pokémon during your opponent’s next turn. Deals 20 damage.
    • Abilities: None

    Key Printings

    This Buizel card is from the Sword & Shield Brilliant Stars expansion, identified as card number 38. It is a common rarity card with no known alternate printings or special editions.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Buizel card. Key identifiers include the set code “swsh9,” regulation mark “F,” and the illustrator credit to Tika Matsuno. The card image can be referenced at /images/swsh9/swsh9-38.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This Buizel card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. It features a simple attack that can provide a defensive advantage by potentially preventing damage and effects for a turn.

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a common card, Buizel benefits from standard protective measures such as sleeves and top loaders to preserve its condition. Avoid exposure to moisture and direct sunlight to maintain the vibrant artwork and card integrity.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): This set includes Buizel as a Basic Water-type Pokémon with a defensive Agility attack. It fits well into beginner decks or collectors focusing on the Brilliant Stars series.

    Buizel (Brilliant Stars) #38

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    Buizel (Brilliant Stars) #38