4 min read

As Pokémon collectors we have opened quite a few packs. Even so, there are sets that leave just a bit more of an impression. Brilliant Stars is one of those. This set combines beautiful artwork with powerful playable cards. And that makes every booster pack a treat to open.

In this blog we tell you why Brilliant Stars is so special, which chase cards you should not miss and whether these packs are really worth buying.

What is the Brilliant Stars booster pack?

As you know, Pokémon releases new sets regularly. But Brilliant Stars from February 2022 had more impact than most other Sword & Shield releases. Why? Because it introduced the VSTAR mechanic.

Every booster pack contains 10 cards, including at least one rare or holo. But the best part is the chance of a Trainer Gallery card. This subset of 30 cards shows trainers and their Pokémon together in unique, atmospheric artwork.

Honestly? The Trainer Gallery is the biggest reason for us to open Brilliant Stars. Even if you do not pull a big hit, you still get beautiful cards that brighten up your binder straight away.

What makes Brilliant Stars so special?

What sets this one apart is not just the new VSTAR cards, but above all the mix between play and collecting. Cards such as Arceus VSTAR and Charizard VSTAR are not only visually impressive, they are also enormously strong in the game.

And then there are those Trainer Gallery cards. Pokémon deliberately chose to bring fan favourites back, but with artwork that looks like it came straight out of an anime scene. We have pulled a few of those cards ourselves and believe us, they are even better in person.

That said, if you are purely after value, this set is not without risk. The chance of a big pull is not as high as with some other sets. But if you are a fan of beautiful illustrations and strong playable cards, Brilliant Stars is absolutely worth it.

Chase cards in Brilliant Stars

Let's be honest: with booster packs it ultimately comes down to that one card you really want. In Brilliant Stars there are a few that lift your collection to the next level straight away.

  • Charizard VSTAR (Rainbow Rare) –
    An iconic card and the star of this set. The value currently sits around €150 - €200, depending on condition and centring. PSA 10 value: €150 – €200
  • Arceus VSTAR (Gold Secret Rare) –
    This card is not only beautiful to look at, it is competitively strong too. The price sits on average between €80 - €100. PSA 10 value: €45 – €60
  • Umbreon VMAX (Trainer Gallery) –
    Umbreon stays a favourite among collectors. This version has unique art and currently sells for €60 - €75. PSA 10 value: €145 – €160
  • Sylveon V (Trainer Gallery) –
    Even though the price is a little lower, this card stays visually impressive. Count on €30 - €40 for a mint copy. PSA 10 value: €120 – €140
  • Charizard V Full Art –
    Easier to pull than the VSTAR, but still a fine addition to any Charizard collection. The value moves between €50 - €70. PSA 10 value: €90 – €100

What we personally like so much about this? Brilliant Stars offers both top cards for players and visually impressive collector's cards. That makes opening a pack exciting every time.

Our experience with Brilliant Stars boosters

We have opened a fair few Brilliant Stars boosters by now. And honestly? It is one of those sets where every pack is fun to open. Even if you do not pull a big hit, the Trainer Gallery cards make sure you still end up with something special.

What struck us is that the holofoil finish is just that bit nicer than in some earlier sets. The shine is bright, the colours are deep and the artwork really jumps off the card. The Charizard VSTAR and Arceus VSTAR in particular have a look that stands out immediately.

Our tip? Buy a few single boosters to get to know the set. But if you are serious about the chase cards, consider a booster box. The pull rates are often better and you simply get more shots at those rare hits.

Is Brilliant Stars a smart investment?

As collectors and players we always look at both the play value and the collector value of a set. Brilliant Stars scores high on both fronts. The VSTAR cards are competitively strong and the Trainer Gallery stays attractive for collectors.

But watch out: the set is not yet rare enough to really rise in value. Prices of single cards can fluctuate, certainly for the Full Arts and Rainbows. Do you want to invest purely? Then we would focus on sealed products or specific chase cards such as the Charizard VSTAR Rainbow Rare.

For anyone who simply wants to collect beautiful cards without making an investment straight away, Brilliant Stars is perfect. You get value for money, and the chance of visually impressive pulls is high.

Who is the Brilliant Stars booster pack for?

  • For collectors: beautiful art, Trainer Gallery cards and visual highlights
  • For players: powerful VSTAR cards that make an impact in the game
  • For investors: the Charizard VSTAR and Arceus VSTAR in particular stay popular
  • For beginners: lots of visually beautiful cards and a solid mix of playable cards

Our advice? Open a few packs and feel the tension. Brilliant Stars is a set that is genuinely fun to leaf through. Even without big hits you are left with beautiful cards. And who knows — maybe you will pull that Charizard.