Brilliant Stars

Pokémon Brilliant Stars

Pokémon TCG: Sword & Shield—Brilliant Stars (swsh09) is the ninth expansion of the Sword & Shield series, released on 25 February 2022. The set marks a landmark moment in the Sword & Shield era by introducing the all-new Pokémon VSTAR mechanic, with Arceus as its headline Pokémon. Collectors and players alike chase this set for its stunning Charizard V alternate art and the debut of the Trainer Gallery subset.

Which Pokémon cards are in Brilliant Stars?

Brilliant Stars introduces four iconic VSTAR Pokémon—Arceus VSTAR, Charizard VSTAR, Shaymin VSTAR, and Whimsicott VSTAR—each with a game-changing VSTAR Power that can only be used once per game. The set also features VMAX Pokémon including Mimikyu VMAX, Aggron VMAX, and Kingler VMAX. Among the 216 cards (172 base set + 44 secret rares) are coveted alternate art versions of Charizard V and Arceus V, rainbow rares, gold cards such as a gold Arceus VSTAR and gold Ultra Ball, and the brand-new Trainer Gallery subset—30 full-art cards depicting beloved Pokémon alongside iconic Trainers, including the highly sought-after Umbreon VMAX from the Trainer Gallery.

Buying Brilliant Stars cards

Brilliant Stars was released in a wide range of products to suit every collector and player:

Booster Pack — A 10-card pack, each including a code card for Pokémon TCG Live and either a basic Energy card or a VSTAR marker.
Booster Box — A sealed box of 36 booster packs, ideal for opening in bulk or completing the set.
Elite Trainer Box — Contains 8 booster packs, 65 Arceus-themed card sleeves, 45 Energy cards, dice, an acrylic VSTAR marker, and a collector's box.
Pokémon Center Elite Trainer Box — An exclusive variant with 10 booster packs and additional accessories including a deck box and metallic coin.
Build & Battle Box — A ready-to-play product for local tournament events, featuring exclusive non-holo promo cards.
Collector Chest (Spring 2022) — A themed lunchbox-style tin containing booster packs and promo cards, featuring Arceus VSTAR artwork.
Arceus VSTAR Premium Collection — A premium bundle with reprints of Arceus V and Arceus VSTAR, booster packs, and an acrylic VSTAR marker.