Chinese Pokémon Set Codes Explained: CSV9C, cs6aC, CBB4C and More
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The most confusing thing about buying Simplified Chinese Pokémon product for the first time is the naming. English collectors are used to set names such as Surging Sparks. Chinese product is identified by codes like CSV9C, cs6aC or CBB4C, and listings often quote them without any explanation. This guide explains how to read them.
Why the code matters more than the name
Simplified Chinese sets have Chinese names but no official English names. Every retailer translates them differently. For example, CSV9C (星彩晶璃) is sold as both "Stellar Crystal" and "Stellar Tera", and CSV5C as both "Dark Crystal Blaze" and "Black Crystal Blaze". The set code printed on the box and packs is the one reliable identifier, so check it before you buy.
How a Chinese set code is built
A code has three parts: a series prefix, a set number, and a trailing C for the Chinese edition.
- CSM — Sun & Moon era sets, the first Simplified Chinese releases from late 2022 (for example CSM1aC, CSM1bC, CSM1cC)
- CS — Sword & Shield era sets (for example cs4.5C, cs6aC, cs6bC)
- CSV — Scarlet & Violet era sets, from CSV1C in January 2025 onwards
- CBB — the Gem Pack series (CBB1C onwards), small rare-focused packs with their own card lists
Within a code:
- A letter after the number (cs6aC, cs6bC) marks one of several sub-sets released together, each with its own card list.
- A .5 (cs4.5C, CSV9.5C) marks a special set released between main expansions, similar to Japanese "high class" sets.
- Promo and themed products such as decks and gift boxes have their own codes, so a gift box may list two or three set codes for the packs inside.
Recent Scarlet & Violet era codes
| Code | Common English name(s) | Mainland China release |
|---|---|---|
| CSV1C | Eternal Beginnings / Eternal Birth | January 2025 |
| CSV2C | Miracle Journey | March 2025 |
| CSV3C | Fearless Terastal | May 2025 |
| CSV4C | Bonus Round | July 2025 |
| CSV5C | Dark Crystal Blaze / Black Crystal Blaze | September 2025 |
| CSV7C | Blade Awakening / Blade Awakened | January 2026 |
| CBB4C | Gem Pack Vol. 4 | February 2026 |
| CSV9C | Stellar Crystal / Stellar Tera | May 2026 |
| CSV9.5C | Terastal Grand Gathering | June 2026 |
| CSV10C | Chasing Glory Together | July 2026 |
The 30th Celebration set (September 2026) is marked "30th C" rather than following the CSV numbering.
Why Chinese sets don't match English sets
Chinese sets often bring together cards that were split across several English or Japanese expansions, and some include cards that are only released in Simplified Chinese. A Chinese set is its own product with its own card list, not a translation of one English set.
Jumbo and slim: same code, different format
Recent main sets are released in two pack formats under the same code. Jumbo packs (20 cards in recent CSV sets, sold 6 to a box) carry red set numbering on the pack. Slim packs (around 5 cards) carry black numbering. Our jumbo booster box guide explains the difference.
How to check what you're buying
Before you buy Chinese sealed product, check three things: the set code, the pack count and format, and whether the seller states it is factory sealed and never weighed. A listing that can't tell you the set code is a warning sign. Our guide to spotting fake or resealed Chinese Pokémon covers what else to look for.
Every Chinese product we list at Celestial Vault shows its set code where it applies. Browse Chinese Pokémon cards or Chinese booster boxes, or start with our Chinese Pokémon TCG — Complete UK Guide.