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To celebrate the launch of the fascinating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, an exciting collaboration is underway. The Pokémon Company alongside the Natural History Museum are opening a pop-up shop featuring special merchandise. Fans will find offerings including plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies all inspired by the institution's theme. For collectors, though, is a limited-edition Pikachu card, given as a gift with purchase at the pop-up. This shop is scheduled from the physical location and its web counterpart from January 26 to April 19.

The Book Behind the Collaboration

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology is a highly anticipated tome packed with beautiful illustrations depicting creatures in their wild environments. The concept is what a Pokémon Professor could produce after trainers provide field notes, alternatively what Charles Darwin could have sketched if the famous islands teemed with Pidgeys rather than birds. A key appeal stems from the book's serious approach, presenting Pokémon as a legitimate subject for inquiry. Writer Yoshinari Yonehara and artist Chihiro Kinoshita each possess doctorate degrees in animal behavior and ecology.

What Makes This Promo Card Different

It is common to issue special edition promos celebrating major tournaments and brand collaborations. A lot of these promotional cards often feature the iconic electric rodent that acts as the franchise mascot. The factor setting this latest promotion apart is its unusually large dimensions. Although precise specs have not been immediately shared, its distribution is guaranteed to be highly restricted, and customers limited to only a single card per purchase.

Curbing Reseller Interest

Per a company announcement, a portion of the pop-up items may also be available outside the museum walls. But, broader availability is slated for specific stores within the United Kingdom. Importantly, collectors cannot purchase this promo through the online Pokémon Center. Although speculator demand is inevitable, it appears they will have trouble stockpiling large numbers on this occasion. For those feeling left out, consider the upcoming fossil-themed display headed to the Windy City later this year.

"All profits from purchases from the museum store and its online store, which covers these items, support the Natural History Museum’s non-profit work. This includes the research of hundreds of researchers who are scientific inquiry to discover solutions to the global ecological crisis," the statement says.