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To celebrate the launch of a captivating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, an exciting collaboration has been formed. Pokémon's creators alongside London's Natural History Museum are opening a temporary store featuring special items. Enthusiasts can look forward to products like plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies all inspired by the museum's theme. For collectors, though, is a limited-edition Pikachu card, given as a free bonus for the pop-up. The store will operate both on-site at the museum and online from January 26 to April 19.

Pokécology That Inspires the Partnership

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology is a much-awaited tome packed with beautiful artwork that show Pokémon in their natural habitats. It's essentially is what an in-world scientist might publish after adventurers submit their data, or a naturalist's journal could have sketched had the Galapagos teemed with Pidgeys rather than finches. A key appeal lies in the book's serious approach, presenting Pokémon as worthy of subject for inquiry. Writer Yoshinari Yonehara together with artist Chihiro Kinoshita each possess doctorate degrees in animal behavior and ecology.

What Makes This Special Card Different

It is common to issue special edition promos for big events or crossover partnerships. A lot such promotional cards often feature the iconic mouse Pokémon who serves as the franchise mascot. The factor setting this latest promotion apart however, is the unusually large size. While precise specs have not been immediately shared, availability is guaranteed to be strictly limited, with fans able to get only a single card with each transaction.

Limiting Reseller Activity

According to an official statement, a portion of the pop-up items will also be sold outside the institution itself. However, broader availability will only be specific stores in the United Kingdom. Importantly, fans will not be able to acquire the card through the online Pokémon Center. Although reseller interest is a given, the setup suggests they're going to have a difficult time hoarding mass quantities this time around. If you're feeling left out, there is an alternative like Pokémon Fossil exhibit coming to the Windy City later this year.

"Every penny of sales from the Museum shop and from its web shop, including Pokémon products, go toward the Natural History Museum’s non-profit work. That encompasses the efforts of 400 scientists dedicated to scientific inquiry and finding solutions to the planetary emergency," the statement says.