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To celebrate the launch of the fascinating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, a unique collaboration has been formed. Pokémon's creators and the Natural History Museum are opening a temporary store featuring special items. Enthusiasts will find products like plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies all drawing from the institution's theme. For collectors, however, will be a limited-edition Pikachu card, offered as a free bonus at the pop-up. This shop will operate from on-site at the museum to online from January 26 to April 19.

Pokécology Behind the Collaboration

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology is a highly anticipated tome filled with stunning illustrations that show creatures in their natural habitats. It's essentially is what an in-world scientist could produce once adventurers provide field notes, or a naturalist's journal could have sketched had the famous islands were populated by flying-types rather than finches. A key appeal lies in the book's scholarly treatment, treating Pokémon as worthy of scientific study. Author Yoshinari Yonehara and artist Chihiro Kinoshita both hold doctorate degrees in ecology and behavioral science.

What Makes This Special Card Stand Out

It is common for The Pokémon Company special edition cards celebrating big events and brand collaborations. A lot such promotional cards typically highlight the iconic mouse Pokémon that acts as the series face. What distinguishes this new promotion apart is its distinctly bigger size. While precise specs were not immediately shared, its distribution will certainly be strictly limited, and fans able to get only a single card per purchase.

Curbing Speculator Activity

According to an official statement, some of the pop-up items will also be sold beyond the museum walls. But, a wider release will only be specific stores within the UK. Critically, collectors will not be able to acquire the card via the online Pokémon Center. Although speculator demand is inevitable, the setup suggests they will have a difficult time stockpiling large numbers this time around. If you're feeling left out, there is the upcoming Pokémon Fossil exhibit headed to the Windy City later this year.

"Every penny from purchases from the museum store and from its web shop, including these items, go toward the Natural History Museum’s non-profit work. This includes the research of 400 scientists who are conducting studies to discover solutions to the planetary emergency," the statement says.