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After a few revealing leaks, Pokémon TCG Japan’s high-class set VSTAR Universe has finally been released. VSTAR Universe, which is available in Japan and locations that sell Japanese products, is the basis for the early 2023 English-language special set closing out the Sword & Shield era, Crown Zenith. Like previous special sets VMAX Climax and Shiny Star V, VSTAR Universe is primarily a reprint set with a large Secret Rare section of chase cards. Among these chase cards are what we initially thought were Alternate Art VSTARs, but which we can now reveal as a new card rarity entirely. Pokémon TCG Japan has revealed new Art Rares and Special Art Rares which riff on Character Rares and Alternate (or Special) Arts. Art Rares are Full Art cards without texture that paint a beautiful unique scene using Pokémon. They are essentially Character Rares without Trainers present. Then, Special Art Rares take the same concept and add the V or VSTAR mechanic. This set also includes Special Art Trainer Supporters and, for the first time ever, Gold Alternate Art VSTARs. It is expected that this will be the final set with Pokémon-V and VSTARs, as 2023 will see the launch of the Scarlet & Violet era which returns to the Pokémon ex mechanic. Today, let’s take a look at a Special Art Rare from the set.
In Pokémon lore, Regigigas is known for physically pulling continents. I just never thought I’d actually get to see it. Artist Aya Kusube beautifully renders a hand-drawn, incredibly detailed, stunning rendering of Regigigas living up to that lore and lugging a humongous landmass behind it. Kusube is surely familiar with Pokémon lore as she has been contributing to the Pokémom TCG since the vintage Wizards of the Coast days, with her first cards being the Poliwag, Eevee, Beedrill, and holographic Houndour from Neo Discover. Some additional notable cards from Kusube include Ho-Oh and Lugia from Neo Revelation, Dark Gengar from Neo Destiny, Reshiram from Black & White – Legendary Treasures, Fletchling from the Radiant Collection subset in Generations, and Naganadel & Guzzlord GX Alternate Art from Sun & Moon – Cosmic Eclipse.
Japanese sets often give us early ideas of what the English-language sets may include, so be sure to keep an eye on our coverage. You can stay tuned for previews of VSTAR Universe cards as well as updates on everything Pokémon TCG right here at Bleeding Cool.
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