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Marking the launch of a captivating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, an exciting partnership is underway. The Pokémon Company alongside the Natural History Museum will launch a pop-up shop featuring special merchandise. Fans will find offerings including stationery, plushes, and artwork that are inspired by the museum's aesthetic. For collectors, however, will be a limited-edition Pikachu card, given as a free bonus at the pop-up. This shop will operate both the physical location and its web counterpart between late January and mid-April.

Pokécology That Inspires the Collaboration

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology is a highly anticipated volume packed with beautiful artwork that show Pokémon in their wild environments. The concept like what an in-world scientist could produce once trainers provide field notes, or a naturalist's journal could have sketched had the famous islands teemed with flying-types rather than birds. Part of the charm stems from the book's serious approach, treating Pokémon as worthy of subject for study. Writer Yoshinari Yonehara and illustrator Chihiro Kinoshita each possess PhDs in animal behavior and ecology.

What Makes This Promo Card Different

It is common to issue to release cards celebrating big events and brand collaborations. A lot such promotional cards often feature the famous electric rodent who serves as the series face. The factor setting this latest promotion apart however, is the unusually large dimensions. While exact measurements were not publicly disclosed, availability will certainly be highly restricted, with fans able to get just one card with each transaction.

Limiting Reseller Interest

According to an official statement, a portion of the merchandise may also be available outside the museum walls. But, broader availability is slated for specific stores within the United Kingdom. Critically, collectors cannot acquire the card via the official web shop. While reseller interest is a given, the setup suggests they will have a difficult time stockpiling large numbers on this occasion. For those feeling left out, consider the upcoming Pokémon Fossil exhibit coming to Chicago later this year.

"Every penny from purchases from the museum store and from its online store, including Pokémon products, go toward the Natural History Museum’s charitable mission. This includes the research of hundreds of researchers dedicated to conducting studies and finding solutions to the global ecological crisis," the statement says.