Tag: Collector’s Guide

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: 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.
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October 1, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Floatzel (Brilliant Stars #39)
Floatzel (Brilliant Stars 39) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Floatzel from the Brilliant Stars set is an uncommon card numbered 39. It has a vibrant 110 HP and features the Water Gun attack. This sleek Pokémon offers a straightforward yet engaging addition to any collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 39 Uncommon 110 kodama
- Type: Water
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Buizel)
- Weakness: Lightning ×2
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Regulation Mark: F
- Flavor Text: Its flotation sac developed as a result of pursuing aquatic prey. It can double as a rubber raft.
Key Printings

From the Sword & Shield series’ Brilliant Stars set, this Uncommon Floatzel (#39) is illustrated by kodama and offers two straightforward attacks:
– Floatify: Retrieve up to 2 Item cards from your discard pile.
– Water Gun: Deals 60 damage with a Water and Colorless energy cost.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by the set code “swsh9” and card ID “swsh9-39.” The card’s image can be referenced at /images/swsh9/swsh9-39.jpg.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its moderate HP and useful Floatify attack make it a potentially strategic choice in casual play, especially for decks focusing on item recovery.

Care & Storage Tips

As an Uncommon card from a recent set, Floatzel should be stored in a protective sleeve and kept away from direct sunlight to preserve its vibrant artwork by kodama. Avoid bending or exposure to moisture to maintain its condition for both play and collection.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Brilliant Stars: Introduces Floatzel as a nimble Water-type with practical item recovery capabilities, fitting well into decks that benefit from recycling resources. The card’s clean design and moderate HP make it a solid pick for collectors and players alike.
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October 1, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Breloom (Brilliant Stars #4)
Breloom (Brilliant Stars 4) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Breloom from the Brilliant Stars set is a Rare card numbered 4. It features 110 HP and the striking attack Powdery Uppercut. This card offers a vibrant addition for collectors seeking dynamic Fighting-type Pokémon.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 4 Rare 110 Sekio
- Type: Grass
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Shroomish)
- Attacks:
- Spore Ball: Puts opponent’s Active Pokémon to Sleep, deals 30 damage (cost: 1 Grass)
- Powdery Uppercut: Deals 130 damage, usable only if Spore Ball was used last turn (cost: 1 Grass)
- Weakness: Fire ×2
- Resistance: None
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Flavor Text: “It scatters poisonous spores and throws powerful punches while its foe is hampered by inhaled spores.”
- Regulation Mark: F
- Legality: unknown
- Image:
Key Printings

This exact printing of Breloom appears in the Sword & Shield series set Brilliant Stars as card number 4. It is classified as a Rare card and features artwork by Sekio. No release date is provided for this printing.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward by its set code “swsh9-4,” rarity, and illustrator. The regulation mark “F” helps place it within the Sword & Shield era.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality status for this card is unknown. It is not currently listed as legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. The card’s attacks focus on status effects and conditional high damage, making it a tactical choice if playable.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the vibrant Sekio artwork and maintain card condition, store this card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and unknown legality, keeping it in mint condition is advisable for both collectors and potential players.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Brilliant Stars (swsh9): This set includes Breloom as a Rare Stage 1 Grass-type Pokémon with a unique sleep-inducing attack and a powerful follow-up move. The set emphasizes dynamic battle strategies and features detailed artwork consistent with the Sword & Shield series.
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October 1, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Lumineon V (Brilliant Stars #40)
Lumineon V Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Lumineon V from the Brilliant Stars set is a Rare Holo V card numbered 40. It has 170 HP, the ability Luminous Sign, and the attack Aqua Return. This card offers a sleek design and solid gameplay potential.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Brilliant Stars 40 Rare Holo V 170 takuyoa
- Card ID: swsh9-40
- Type: Water
- Stage: Basic, V
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Lightning ×2
- Regulation Mark: F
- Series: Sword & Shield
- Rules: V rule applies — when your Pokémon V is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.
Key Printings

This exact printing of Lumineon V appears in the Brilliant Stars expansion of the Sword & Shield series. It is identified as card number 40 and is a Rare Holo V variant.

Ability — Luminous Sign

When you play Lumineon V onto your Bench, you may search your deck for a Supporter card.

Attack — Aqua Return

Deals 120 damage and shuffles Lumineon V and all attached cards back into your deck.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this Lumineon V card. Key identifiers include the set code swsh9, the regulation mark F, and the illustrator credit to takuyoa. The card’s market reference query is “Lumineon V Brilliant Stars 40.”

Legality & Play Notes

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

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the vibrant holofoil and detailed artwork by takuyoa, store Lumineon V in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use a top loader or a binder with individual pockets to prevent bending and surface scratches. Handle the card with clean hands to maintain its pristine condition.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Brilliant Stars: This set introduced Lumineon V as a Basic Water-type Pokémon V with a useful Supporter-searching ability and a powerful attack that recycles itself into the deck. The card’s Rare Holo V rarity and striking illustration make it a notable collectible within the expansion.
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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