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To celebrate the launch of a captivating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, a unique partnership is underway. Pokémon's creators alongside the Natural History Museum are opening a temporary store stocked with exclusive items. Enthusiasts will find products like plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies all drawing from the museum's theme. For collectors, though, will be a limited-edition Pikachu card, given as a free bonus for the pop-up. This shop will operate both on-site at the museum to its web counterpart between late January and mid-April.

The Book That Inspires the Collaboration

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology represents a highly anticipated tome packed with beautiful illustrations depicting Pokémon in their wild environments. The concept is what an in-world scientist could produce once trainers submit their data, or what Charles Darwin could have sketched had the Galapagos teemed with Pidgeys rather than finches. Part of the charm stems from the book's serious approach, presenting Pokémon as worthy of scientific study. Author Yoshinari Yonehara together with illustrator Chihiro Kinoshita each possess doctorate degrees in ecology and behavioral science.

Why This Special Card Stand Out

It is common for The Pokémon Company special edition promos for big events or brand collaborations. Many such collector items typically highlight the iconic mouse Pokémon that acts as the series face. The factor setting this new promotion apart is its distinctly bigger dimensions. Although exact measurements have not been immediately shared, availability is guaranteed to be highly restricted, with fans limited to only a single card with each transaction.

Curbing Speculator Interest

Per an official statement, a portion of the merchandise will also be sold beyond the museum walls. However, a wider release is slated for select retailers within the United Kingdom. Importantly, fans cannot purchase this promo via the online Pokémon Center. While reseller interest is a given, the setup suggests they're going to have trouble hoarding mass quantities on this occasion. For those unable to attend, there is an alternative like fossil-themed display headed to Chicago in the coming months.

"All profits from purchases from the museum store and from its online store, including these items, support the Natural History Museum’s non-profit work. This includes the efforts of hundreds of researchers dedicated to scientific inquiry to discover answers to the global ecological crisis," the statement says.