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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 will launch a temporary store featuring exclusive merchandise. Fans will find products like plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies that are drawing from the institution's theme. For collectors, though, will be a specially made Pikachu card, given as a free bonus for the pop-up. This shop is scheduled both the physical location to online from January 26 to April 19.

Pokécology That Inspires the Collaboration

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology is a much-awaited volume filled with beautiful artwork depicting creatures in their wild environments. It's essentially is what an in-world scientist could produce after trainers submit their data, or what Charles Darwin might have created had the famous islands were populated by flying-types rather than birds. A key appeal stems from the book's scholarly approach, treating Pokémon as worthy of scientific study. Author Yoshinari Yonehara and illustrator Chihiro Kinoshita each possess PhDs in ecology and behavioral science.

What Makes This Promo Card Stand Out

It is common to issue special edition promos for major tournaments and crossover partnerships. Many such collector items often feature the famous mouse Pokémon who serves as the franchise mascot. What distinguishes this new museum card however, is the unusually large size. While precise specs were not publicly disclosed, availability will certainly be strictly limited, and customers able to get just one card with each transaction.

Curbing Speculator Activity

Per a company announcement, a portion of the pop-up items will also be sold beyond the museum walls. But, a wider release will only be select retailers in the UK. Importantly, collectors will not be able to acquire the card through the online Pokémon Center. Although speculator demand is a given, it appears they will have a difficult time hoarding mass quantities on this occasion. If you're unable to attend, consider the upcoming Pokémon Fossil exhibit headed to Chicago in the coming months.

"Every penny from purchases made in the Museum shop and its web shop, including these items, support the Natural History Museum’s charitable mission. That encompasses the efforts of hundreds of researchers who are conducting studies to discover answers to the planetary emergency," it notes.