Tag: swsh9

  • Collector’s Guide: Whimsicott VSTAR (Brilliant Stars #175)

    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.

    Whimsicott VSTAR (Brilliant Stars) #175

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    Whimsicott VSTAR (Brilliant Stars) #175

  • Collector’s Guide: Arceus VSTAR (Brilliant Stars #176)

    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.

    swsh9-176

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    Arceus VSTAR (Brilliant Stars) #176

  • Collector’s Guide: Cheren’s Care (Brilliant Stars #177)

    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:
      swsh9-177

    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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    Cheren's Care (Brilliant Stars) #177

  • Collector’s Guide: Barry (Brilliant Stars #167)

    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.

    swsh9-167

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    Barry (Brilliant Stars) #167

  • Collector’s Guide: Cheren’s Care (Brilliant Stars #168)

    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.

    Cheren's Care (Brilliant Stars) #168

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    Cheren's Care (Brilliant Stars) #168

  • Collector’s Guide: Cynthia’s Ambition (Brilliant Stars #169)

    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.

    swsh9-169

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    Cynthia's Ambition (Brilliant Stars) #169

  • Collector’s Guide: Charizard V (Brilliant Stars #17)

    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.

    Charizard V (Brilliant Stars) #17

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    Charizard V (Brilliant Stars) #17

  • Collector’s Guide: Magma Basin (Brilliant Stars #185)

    Collector’s Guide: Magma Basin (Brilliant Stars #185)

    Magma Basin (Brilliant Stars 185) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Magma Basin is a Rare Secret Stadium card from the Brilliant Stars set, numbered 185. Its striking, volcanic-themed artwork makes it a vivid target for collectors who value bold, high-impact visuals.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 185 Rare Secret ORBITALLINK Inc.
    • Card Type: Stadium
    • Stage: Stadium
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Subtypes: Stadium
    • Pokémon: Magma Basin
    • Weaknesses: None
    • Resistances: None

    Key Printings

    Printed exclusively in Brilliant Stars under code swsh9-185, this Rare Secret Stadium is a standout for collectors focused on rare Stadium cards.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No known print variants. Identified by set code swsh9 and number 185, with illustrator credit to ORBITALLINK Inc., which also aids in authentication.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown

    Effect: Each player, once during their turn, may attach a Fire Energy card from their discard pile to one of their Benched Fire Pokémon; if they do, that Pokémon receives 2 damage counters. This tradeoff can enable aggressive Fire-type strategies.

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a Rare Secret with distinctive artwork, store Magma Basin in a protective sleeve and keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid bending and moisture to preserve condition and collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Introduced Magma Basin as a rare secret Stadium card with a unique Fire Energy attachment mechanic, illustrated by ORBITALLINK Inc. The card adds tactical depth to Fire-type decks and stands out for collectors due to its rarity and artwork.

    swsh9-185

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    Magma Basin (Brilliant Stars) #185

  • Collector’s Guide: Ultra Ball (Brilliant Stars #186)

    Collector’s Guide: Ultra Ball (Brilliant Stars #186)

    Ultra Ball (Brilliant Stars 186) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Ultra Ball is a Rare Secret card from the Brilliant Stars set, numbered 186. Its vivid artwork and high rarity make it a standout Trainer pickup that reflects the dynamic spirit of the Brilliant Stars expansion.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 186 Rare Secret sadaji
    • Card Name: Ultra Ball
    • Card Type: Item
    • Stage: Item
    • Set Code: swsh9
    • Series: Sword & Shield
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Rarity: Rare Secret
    • Illustrator: sadaji
    • Image URL: /images/swsh9/swsh9-186.jpg

    Key Printings

    This exact printing appears in Brilliant Stars (set code swsh9) as card number 186. As a Rare Secret, it’s a notable target for collectors and players.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Ultra Ball. Identifiers include set code swsh9, number 186, and illustrator sadaji. The card is an Item type with no HP, attacks, or abilities, and it carries regulation mark F.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown

    Rules: You can use this card only if you discard 2 other cards from your hand. Search your deck for a Pokémon, reveal it, and put it into your hand. Then, shuffle your deck. You may play any number of Item cards during your turn.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Protect with a sleeve, keep out of direct sunlight and moisture, and use a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets to prevent bending or scratches. Handle by the edges to avoid fingerprints.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Includes Ultra Ball as a Rare Secret featuring clean artwork by sadaji and a useful deck-searching effect. Part of the Sword & Shield series with regulation mark F.

    Ultra Ball (Brilliant Stars) #186

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    Ultra Ball (Brilliant Stars) #186

  • Collector’s Guide: Magmar (Brilliant Stars #19)

    Collector’s Guide: Magmar (Brilliant Stars #19)

    Magmar (Brilliant Stars 19) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Magmar from Brilliant Stars is a Common, Basic Fire-type card numbered 19 with 90 HP. Featuring the attack Fiery Punch, its clean, straightforward design makes it an easy pick for both players and collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Brilliant Stars 19 Common 90 Shinji Kanda
    • HP: 90
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Regulation Mark: F
    • Evolves From: None
    • Flavor Text: “Magmar dispatches its prey with fire. But it regrets this habit once it realizes that it has burned its intended prey to a charred crisp.”

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Sword & Shield Brilliant Stars set, card number 19. It features two attacks: Low Kick (20 damage) requiring two Colorless energies, and Fiery Punch (70 damage) requiring two Fire and one Colorless energy. The card has no abilities.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by its set code “swsh9-19” and the regulation mark “F.” The illustrator credit goes to Shinji Kanda. The card’s image can be found at /images/swsh9/swsh9-19.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a common card with a moderate retreat cost and no special abilities, preserving condition is key. Store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture to maintain the vibrant artwork and prevent warping.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Brilliant Stars (swsh9): Magmar appears as a straightforward Basic Fire-type Pokémon with solid attack options but no abilities. It fits well into casual play and collecting due to its common rarity and iconic fiery theme.

    Magmar (Brilliant Stars) #19

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    Magmar (Brilliant Stars) #19