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To celebrate the arrival of the fascinating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, an exciting collaboration has been formed. The Pokémon Company and London's Natural History Museum will launch a pop-up shop stocked with exclusive items. Enthusiasts can look forward to products like plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies all drawing from the institution's aesthetic. The big draw, though, will be a specially made Pikachu card, offered as a free bonus at the pop-up. This shop will operate from on-site at the museum to its web counterpart from January 26 to April 19.

Pokécology That Inspires the Partnership

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology represents a highly anticipated volume filled with beautiful artwork that show creatures in their natural habitats. The concept like what an in-world scientist might publish once trainers submit their data, alternatively a naturalist's journal could have sketched if the Galapagos were populated by Pidgeys instead of birds. A key appeal lies in the book's scholarly approach, presenting Pokémon as a legitimate scientific study. Author Yoshinari Yonehara together with artist Chihiro Kinoshita each possess doctorate degrees in ecology and behavioral science.

What Makes This Promo Card Different

It is common to issue to release promos celebrating big events or brand collaborations. Many such collector items often feature the famous mouse Pokémon who serves as the series face. The factor setting this new promotion apart however, is the distinctly bigger size. While exact measurements have not been immediately shared, its distribution is guaranteed to be highly restricted, with customers able to get only a single card per purchase.

Curbing Speculator Interest

According to a company announcement, some of the merchandise will also be sold beyond the institution itself. However, broader availability will only be select retailers within the UK. Critically, collectors cannot acquire the card through the online Pokémon Center. Although speculator demand is a given, it appears they will have trouble stockpiling large numbers this time around. If you're feeling left out, consider an alternative like Pokémon Fossil exhibit coming to the Windy City in the coming months.

"Every penny from purchases made in the museum store and from its web shop, including these items, go toward the Natural History Museum’s non-profit work. This includes the efforts of hundreds of researchers who are conducting studies and finding solutions to the global ecological crisis," the statement says.