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Marking the launch of a captivating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, a unique collaboration has been formed. The Pokémon Company alongside London's Natural History Museum will launch a temporary store featuring special merchandise. Enthusiasts can look forward to products like plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies that are inspired by the institution's aesthetic. For collectors, though, will be a limited-edition Pikachu card, given as a free bonus at the pop-up. The store will operate from on-site at the museum to online between late January and mid-April.

Pokécology Behind the Partnership

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology is a highly anticipated volume packed with beautiful illustrations depicting Pokémon in their wild environments. The concept is the kind of research a Pokémon Professor could produce once trainers provide field notes, or a naturalist's journal might have created had the famous islands were populated by flying-types instead of birds. Part of the charm lies in the book's scholarly approach, treating Pokémon as worthy of subject for inquiry. Writer Yoshinari Yonehara and illustrator Chihiro Kinoshita both hold PhDs in animal behavior and ecology.

Why This Special Card Different

The company regularly for The Pokémon Company to release cards celebrating major tournaments or crossover partnerships. A lot such collector items typically highlight the famous electric rodent that acts as the series face. What distinguishes this new museum card is its distinctly bigger dimensions. Although precise specs have not been publicly disclosed, its distribution is guaranteed to be strictly limited, and fans able to get just one card with each transaction.

Limiting Speculator Activity

Per a company announcement, a portion of the pop-up items will also be sold outside the museum walls. But, broader availability will only be select retailers in the United Kingdom. Importantly, fans cannot purchase this promo through the online Pokémon Center. Although speculator demand is a given, it appears they will have trouble hoarding mass quantities this time around. If you're unable to attend, there is an alternative like fossil-themed display headed to the Windy City later this year.

"All profits from purchases from the Museum shop and from its online store, including Pokémon products, support the Natural History Museum’s charitable mission. This includes the efforts of 400 scientists who are conducting studies and finding solutions to the planetary emergency," the statement says.