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Marking the arrival of a captivating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, an exciting partnership is underway. The Pokémon Company and London's Natural History Museum are opening a temporary store stocked with special items. Enthusiasts will find offerings including plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies all inspired by the institution's aesthetic. For collectors, however, is a limited-edition Pikachu card, given as a free bonus for the pop-up. This shop will operate from on-site at the museum to online from January 26 to April 19.

Pokécology That Inspires the Collaboration

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology represents a highly anticipated tome packed with beautiful illustrations that show Pokémon in their natural habitats. The concept like what an in-world scientist might publish after trainers provide field notes, or what Charles Darwin might have created had the Galapagos teemed with flying-types instead of birds. Part of the charm lies in the book's scholarly treatment, treating Pokémon as a legitimate subject for inquiry. Writer Yoshinari Yonehara together with artist Chihiro Kinoshita both hold doctorate degrees in animal behavior and ecology.

What Makes This Promo Card Different

It is common to issue special edition cards for big events and brand collaborations. A lot of these promotional cards often feature the famous mouse Pokémon who serves as the franchise mascot. What distinguishes this new museum card however, is the distinctly bigger dimensions. Although exact measurements were not immediately shared, availability will certainly be highly restricted, with fans able to get just one card per purchase.

Curbing Speculator Activity

Per a company statement, some of the merchandise will also be sold beyond the institution itself. But, broader availability is slated for select retailers within the UK. Critically, fans will not be able to purchase the card via the official web shop. While reseller interest is inevitable, the setup suggests they will have trouble stockpiling large numbers on this occasion. If you're unable to attend, consider the upcoming Pokémon Fossil exhibit coming to Chicago later this year.

"Every penny of sales made in the museum store and its web shop, which covers Pokémon products, support the Natural History Museum’s charitable mission. This includes the efforts of 400 scientists who are scientific inquiry to discover solutions to the global ecological crisis," it notes.