VSTAR cards are classified as Ultra Rare, which puts them above regular holo rares but below Secret Rares in terms of rarity. Exact pull rates vary between specific VSTAR cards, but the average is around 1 in 20 booster packs based on early set data. So while not the rarest cards in modern Pokémon TCG sets, VSTAR cards are still challenging to obtain compared to common cards.
In this guide, we‘ll take a deep dive into the rarity, value, playability, and collectibility of these exciting new VSTAR Pokémon! Whether you‘re a competitive player or collector, read on to learn everything you need to know about these powerful cards shaking up the meta.
Introducing VSTAR Cards
VSTAR cards feature popular Pokémon like Pikachu, Charizard, and Mewtwo with souped up stats and abilities. They first appeared in the Brilliant Stars set released internationally in early 2022.
What makes VSTAR cards unique is their one-time use VSTAR Power – either an extra powerful attack or game-changing Ability usable just once per game. They build upon the V and VMAX mechanic from previous Sword & Shield sets by providing basic Pokémon with higher HP and damage output than normal Vs.
| VSTAR Card Stats | VMAX Card Stats |
|---|---|
| Evolves from V | Evolves from V |
| ~220 HP | ~300 HP |
| VSTAR Power – 1 use per game | No Limit on Attacks |
| 2 Prize Cards | 3 Prize Cards |
So in exchange for having less raw power than VMAX counterparts, properly timed VSTAR Powers can completely flip matchups. Let‘s analyze some standout examples.
Top Competitive VSTAR Cards
These VSTAR Pokémon make a major impact when their one-shot power is unleashed:
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Arceus VSTAR – Its "Star Birth" attack does 120 damage times the number of different Pokémon V/VMAX in play. Potential for over 300 damage in a single strike!
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Lugia VSTAR – "Aero Tackle" does just 80 damage but lets you take an extra turn immediately after. Extremely disruptive.
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Dialga VSTAR – "Chrono Shift" resets all damage counters on your side, healing your entire team to full health.
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Charizard VSTAR – "Starry Night Scissors" discards Special Energy from the Defending Pokémon, shutting down many strategies.
As you can see, these are game-changing effects that can instantly turn losing scenarios into wins. Top players have quickly adopted VSTAR cards into competitive decks focused on utilizing their powers at key moments.
Valuable Special Art VSTAR Cards
While all VSTAR cards are classified as Ultra Rare, the alternate art versions are where collectors find immense value. Let‘s look at a few of the most in-demand Special Art VSTAR cards:
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Umbreon VMAX – From Evolving Skies, this card shocked many by dethroning the iconic Base Set 1st Edition Charizard as the most valuable modern Pokémon card. Worth over $500!
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Rayquaza VMAX – This green dragon‘s vibrant Special Art from Evolving Skies fetches north of $400 in top condition.
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Arceus VSTAR – The Special Art version of the original VSTAR shows Arceus glowing with power. It trades hands for $250-$300.
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Charizard VSTAR – Despite being reprinted in several sets already, this fiery lizard remains popular. The Special Art sells for $200+.
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Lugia VSTAR – Silver Tempest provided this beautiful alternate take on Lugia VSTAR that goes for around $150.
So while the normal versions have value, the Special/Alternate Art VSTARs are where collectors find big money investment potential. Their prices continue rising due to very limited supply and extremely high demand.
Current VSTAR Pull Rates
We can examine exact pull rate data to get a clearer picture of just how rare it is to open different VSTAR cards from booster packs:
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Arceus VSTAR (Brilliant Stars) – According to PokeBeach, 1 in 432 packs for the regular Ultra Rare version.
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Lugia VSTAR (Silver Tempest) – Roughly 1 in 300 packs based on early Silver Tempest openings.
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Charizard VSTAR (Brilliant Stars) – Around 1 in 415 packs according to retail opening data.
For reference, the Ultra Rare pull rate averages around 1 in 30 packs for modern sets. So we see VSTAR cards are clearly much rarer than your standard holo cards, but not as elusive as the 1 in 1000+ Secret Rares.
Where to Find VSTAR Cards
VSTAR cards first debuted in February 2022‘s Brilliant Stars set. They have since continued to be featured in special sets including:
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Astral Radiance (May 2022)
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Pokémon GO (July 2022)
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Silver Tempest (September 2022)
Upcoming confirmed sets with VSTAR cards include Crown Zenith (December 2022) and 2023‘s VSTAR Universe.
Given the popularity and collectibility of VSTAR cards, finding booster boxes and packs of these special sets in stock can be challenging. If you‘re having no luck locating sealed product, your best bet is buying VSTAR singles from reputable Pokémon TCG retailers like TCGPlayer, Troll & Toad, and Card Cavern.
The Investment Potential of VSTAR Cards
For savvy collectors, VSTAR cards present an intriguing investment opportunity. The unique playability and aesthetic appeal of Special Art VSTARs has driven prices over $100+ for chase cards like Arceus, Charizard, and Lugia mere months after release.
In my opinion, the VSTAR cards with the most long-term growth potential as investments are:
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Pikachu VSTAR – As the beloved mascot, Pikachu VSTARs tend to command premium prices. The Special Art version will only gain value over time.
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Eeveelution VSTARs – With 8 different Eevee evolutions, each Special Art VSTAR has collector appeal. Umbreon and Espeon should see big demand.
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Mewtwo VSTAR – One of the most competitively viable Pokémon ever printed. The Mewtwo VSTAR Special Art stands out as an incredible card.
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Lugia VSTAR – Popular legendary bird with a meta-defining VSTAR Power. Short printed Silver Tempest set drives up prices.
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Rayquaza VSTAR – Rayquaza‘s reputation as one of the top dragon legendaries ensures interest in its VSTAR cards.
Whether you‘re investing for profit potential or simply collecting favorites, VSTAR cards are worth paying attention to. Their inaugural year has shown immense promise already.
Key Takeaways
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VSTAR cards are classified as Ultra Rare, with ~1 in 20 pack pull rate.
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Special Art VSTAR cards are where the huge value lies, some worth over $500!
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Arceus, Charizard, Lugia, Rayquaza, and Umbreon VMAX lead the most valuable VSTARs.
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VSTAR cards provide game-changing single use Powers for competitive play.
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Early indications point to strong long-term growth potential for VSTAR chase card prices.
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Pikachu, Mewtwo, Eeveelutions, Lugia and Rayquaza look to be smart investment VSTAR buys.
The bottom line – VSTAR cards are an exciting new addition bringing compelling gameplay and collectibility. While not the absolute rarest, their uniqueness and power ensures sustained demand from Pokémon TCG enthusiasts everywhere.
