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To celebrate the arrival of a captivating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, an exciting collaboration has been formed. Pokémon's creators and the Natural History Museum are opening a pop-up shop stocked with special merchandise. Fans will find products like stationery, plushes, and artwork that are inspired by the institution's aesthetic. The big draw, however, is a limited-edition Pikachu card, offered as a free bonus for the pop-up. The store will operate from the physical location and online from January 26 to April 19.

Pokécology Behind the Collaboration

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology is a much-awaited volume filled with beautiful artwork that show Pokémon in their natural habitats. It's essentially like what an in-world scientist could produce after trainers submit their data, or a naturalist's journal might have created if the famous islands teemed with Pidgeys instead of finches. Part of the charm lies in the book's scholarly treatment, presenting Pokémon as a legitimate subject for study. Writer Yoshinari Yonehara together with artist Chihiro Kinoshita each possess PhDs in animal behavior and ecology.

What Makes This Promo Card Different

The company regularly to issue special edition cards for major tournaments or brand collaborations. A lot of these promotional cards typically highlight the famous electric rodent who serves as the franchise mascot. What distinguishes this latest museum card however, is the distinctly bigger dimensions. Although precise specs were not immediately shared, availability is guaranteed to be strictly limited, with fans limited to just one card with each transaction.

Limiting Reseller Activity

According to an official announcement, a portion of the pop-up items may also be available beyond the institution itself. However, a wider release will only be specific stores within the UK. Critically, collectors will not be able to purchase the card via the online Pokémon Center. While speculator demand is a given, it appears they're going to have a difficult time hoarding mass quantities on this occasion. If you're unable to attend, there is an alternative like Pokémon Fossil exhibit coming to Chicago later this year.

"Every penny from purchases from the museum store and from its web shop, which covers these items, go toward the Natural History Museum’s charitable mission. That encompasses the efforts of hundreds of researchers who are conducting studies and finding solutions to the global ecological crisis," the statement notes.