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To celebrate the launch of a captivating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, a unique collaboration is underway. The Pokémon Company alongside the Natural History Museum are opening a pop-up shop featuring special items. Fans will find offerings including plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies all inspired by the institution's theme. The big draw, though, will be a specially made Pikachu card, given as a free bonus for the pop-up. The store is scheduled from on-site at the museum to online from January 26 to April 19.

The Book That Inspires the Collaboration

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology is a much-awaited tome packed with beautiful illustrations depicting Pokémon in their wild environments. It's essentially is what a Pokémon Professor could produce after trainers submit their data, or a naturalist's journal could have sketched had the Galapagos teemed with flying-types rather than birds. Part of the charm lies in the book's serious approach, treating Pokémon as worthy of scientific study. Writer Yoshinari Yonehara together with artist Chihiro Kinoshita both hold doctorate degrees in animal behavior and ecology.

What Makes This Promo Card Stand Out

It is common for The Pokémon Company to release cards celebrating big events and crossover partnerships. Many of these collector items typically highlight the iconic mouse Pokémon that acts as the franchise mascot. What distinguishes this new museum card however, is the unusually large dimensions. While exact measurements were not immediately shared, its distribution will certainly be strictly limited, with customers able to get just one card per purchase.

Curbing Reseller Activity

According to a company statement, a portion of the merchandise may also be available outside the institution itself. But, a wider release is slated for specific stores within the United Kingdom. Importantly, collectors will not be able to purchase the card via the official web shop. While reseller interest is inevitable, it appears they will have a difficult time stockpiling large numbers on this occasion. For those feeling left out, consider the upcoming fossil-themed display coming to Chicago in the coming months.

"Every penny of sales made in the museum store and its online store, including Pokémon products, go toward the Natural History Museum’s non-profit work. This includes the efforts of hundreds of researchers who are scientific inquiry to discover solutions to the planetary emergency," the statement says.