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To celebrate the arrival of a captivating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, a unique partnership has been formed. Pokémon's creators alongside London's Natural History Museum are opening a temporary store featuring exclusive items. Enthusiasts will find products like plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies all inspired by the museum's aesthetic. The big draw, though, is a specially made Pikachu card, offered as a free bonus for the pop-up. This shop is scheduled both the physical location and online between late January and mid-April.

The Book That Inspires the Collaboration

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology is a highly anticipated tome packed with beautiful illustrations depicting creatures in their natural habitats. It's essentially is the kind of research an in-world scientist might publish once trainers provide field notes, or a naturalist's journal could have sketched had the famous islands were populated by flying-types instead of birds. Part of the charm lies in the book's serious approach, presenting Pokémon as a legitimate subject for study. 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 for The Pokémon Company special edition promos for big events or crossover partnerships. A lot such promotional cards typically highlight the iconic mouse Pokémon who serves as the series face. What distinguishes this new museum card however, is the distinctly bigger size. While precise specs have not been immediately shared, its distribution is guaranteed to be strictly limited, with fans limited to just one card with each transaction.

Limiting Reseller Interest

According to a company announcement, some of the merchandise will also be sold beyond the museum walls. But, a wider release is slated for select retailers within the UK. Critically, collectors cannot acquire the card via the online Pokémon Center. While speculator demand is a given, it appears they will have a difficult time hoarding mass quantities on this occasion. For those unable to attend, consider an alternative like fossil-themed display coming to the Windy City in the coming months.

"Every penny of sales made in the Museum shop and from its web shop, which covers these items, go toward the Natural History Museum’s non-profit work. That encompasses the efforts of 400 scientists who are conducting studies and finding answers to the global ecological crisis," it notes.