Posted in: Card Games, Games, Pokémon TCG, Tabletop | Tagged: Crown Zenith, pokemon, Pokemon TCG, VSTAR Universe, Zapdos

Pokémon TCG Japan: VSTAR Universe Preview: Galarian Zapdos

After a few revealing leaks, Pokémon TCG Japan's high-class set VSTAR Universe has finally been revealed. VSTAR Universe will drop in Japan this December and is thought to be 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 thought to be 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. 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 an Art Rare from the set.

Just like the Galarian Articuno Art Rare that we showed yesterday, Japanese collectors will get Galarian Zapdos Art Rare in packs of VSTAR Universe while international collectors will get it as a guaranteed SWSH Black Star Promo in Crown Zenith Galarian Zapdos tins.

Artist Rianti Hidayat illustrates a Galarian Zapdos moving so fast that even Dodrio is a blur to it. Hidayat is relatively new to the Pokémon TCG with this being their first Secret Rare card. Hidayat, who previously contributed a Beartic and Impidimp to Sword & Shield – Brilliant Stars, uses a geometric style with angular shapes and a lack of black line art to create a unique vibe.

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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