A third battle style joined Single Strike and Rapid Strike in Fusion Strike, released on November 12, 2021. Led by Mew VMAX, it's the biggest set of the Sword & Shield era, and its alt art Gengar VMAX is one of the era's great chase cards. Here's the collector's guide: the dates, the mechanics, the chase cards and what came in every box.
Fusion Strike at a Glance
- Release date: November 12, 2021
- Set code: SWSH08
- Set size: 264 cards plus secret rares, the largest main set of the era
- Headliners: Mew VMAX and Genesect V
- New mechanic: Fusion Strike Pokémon, Trainers and Energy
The Fusion Strike Style
Fusion Strike cards share abilities and attacks that reward stacking multiple Fusion Strike Pokémon together. Mew VMAX and Genesect V powered one of the fastest decks of the era, which kept Fusion Strike packs in demand with players as well as collectors.
The Chase Cards
Gengar VMAX alt art. The top card of the set, with Gengar looming over a city at night.
Espeon VMAX alt art. Another fan favorite, and a must for Eeveelution collectors.
Mew V and Mew VMAX alt arts. The set's headliner in full-scene illustrations.
Full Art Trainers. A deep list of Supporters, including rainbow and gold versions.
The Product Lineup
| Product | What's inside |
|---|---|
 Booster Pack
|
10 cards plus a basic Energy, in one of four pack artworks |
 Sleeved Booster Pack
|
1 booster pack in cardboard sleeve packaging |
| Build and Battle Box | 4 packs and a 23-card Evolution pack with 1 of 4 promos |
 Build and Battle Stadium
|
2 Build and Battle kits plus extra booster packs, built for two players |
| Elite Trainer Box | 8 packs, sleeves, Energy cards, dice and a storage box |
| Booster Box | 36 packs |
Our quick picks: The Build and Battle Stadium is a great two-player box with plenty of packs. Booster packs and sleeved packs are the easy way to take a shot at the Gengar alt art.
Tips for Collectors
- Expect a big set. With over 260 cards, Fusion Strike's chase cards are spread thin, so pick your targets.
- Check sold listings. Alt art prices vary with condition, so compare recent eBay sold listings.
- Collect the alt arts by type. Gengar, Espeon and Mew make a great trio for a binder page.
Keep Collecting With Booster Pack Cards
Browse our Pokémon TCG Booster Packs, Build and Battle products and Booster Boxes, or shop the full Pokémon TCG collection. Next up: VSTAR arrives in our Brilliant Stars collector's guide.
