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Marking the launch of a captivating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, a unique collaboration is underway. Pokémon's creators alongside the Natural History Museum will launch a temporary store featuring exclusive items. Enthusiasts can look forward to offerings including plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies all drawing from the institution's aesthetic. For collectors, though, is a limited-edition Pikachu card, offered as a gift with purchase at the pop-up. This shop will operate both on-site at the museum to its web counterpart from January 26 to April 19.

The Book That Inspires the Partnership

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology represents a highly anticipated tome packed with stunning artwork depicting Pokémon in their wild environments. It's essentially is the kind of research an in-world scientist might publish after adventurers submit their data, or what Charles Darwin could have sketched if the famous islands teemed with Pidgeys rather than birds. A key appeal lies in the book's serious approach, presenting Pokémon as worthy of subject for inquiry. Writer Yoshinari Yonehara and illustrator Chihiro Kinoshita both hold doctorate degrees in ecology and behavioral science.

What Makes This Special Card Different

It is common for The Pokémon Company to release promos celebrating major tournaments or brand collaborations. Many of these collector items typically highlight the famous mouse Pokémon who serves as the franchise mascot. What distinguishes this latest promotion apart however, is the distinctly bigger dimensions. While precise specs have not been publicly disclosed, availability will certainly be highly restricted, with customers able to get only a single card per purchase.

Curbing Reseller Interest

Per a company statement, a portion of the pop-up items may also be available outside the museum walls. But, broader availability is slated for select retailers in the United Kingdom. Importantly, fans cannot purchase this promo through the official web shop. Although speculator demand is inevitable, it appears they will have trouble stockpiling large numbers on this occasion. If you're feeling left out, there is an alternative like fossil-themed display headed to Chicago later this year.

"All profits of sales from the museum store and from its web shop, which covers Pokémon products, support the Natural History Museum’s non-profit work. This includes the efforts of hundreds of researchers who are scientific inquiry and finding solutions to the planetary emergency," it says.