超爆インパクト (Explosive Impact): Japanese Pokémon TCG Set Guide (SM8)

超爆インパクト (Explosive Impact) is the eighth main expansion of the Sun & Moon Era in the Japanese Pokémon TCG. Released on 7 September 2018, it is one of the largest Sun & Moon sets, featuring an extensive roster of GX cards headlined by Lugia-GX and Tyranitar-GX. The set also introduced several competitively relevant trainer cards and support Pokémon.

By PulloraX · Published 30 October 2026

Set overview

Set code: SM8
Japanese name: 拡張パック 超爆インパクト
Cards: 95 + secret rares
Release date: 7 September 2018
Era: Sun & Moon
Series type: Main expansion (拡張パック)

Explosive Impact lived up to its name with powerful GX Pokémon and impactful trainer cards. The set covered a wide spread of types and included several Pokémon-GX that would see play throughout the remainder of the Sun & Moon format.

Key cards

GX cards: Lugia-GX (Colorless type) brings the Legendary bird back as a GX with massive HP and a devastating GX attack. Tyranitar-GX (Dark type) dominates with its raw power. Blacephalon-GX (Fire type) introduced a unique Lost Zone-based attack strategy. Suicune-GX, Sceptile-GX, and Genesect-GX add further options. Each appears in RR, SR, and HR versions.

Notable cards: Lost Thunder-related cards expanded the Lost Zone mechanic. Custom Catcher and other trainer cards became format staples.

Secret Rares: SR Full Art GX cards, HR Rainbow Rares of all GX Pokémon, and UR gold trainer cards. The Blacephalon-GX SR is a notable competitive chase card.

What is in the box

A Japanese SM8 Explosive Impact booster box contains 30 packs of 5 cards each. The large 95-card pool means extensive variety in every box. SR and HR pull rates average roughly one per box.

Shop this set

• Super Explosive Impact SM8 Japanese Pokémon Booster Box

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