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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 and the Natural History Museum are opening a temporary store featuring special merchandise. Enthusiasts can look forward to products like stationery, plushes, and artwork all inspired by the institution's aesthetic. The big draw, though, will be a limited-edition Pikachu card, given as a free bonus for the pop-up. The store is scheduled both on-site at the museum and its web counterpart from January 26 to April 19.

The Book That Inspires the Collaboration

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology is a highly anticipated tome packed with stunning artwork depicting Pokémon in their natural habitats. The concept like the kind of research a Pokémon Professor might publish once trainers submit their data, alternatively what Charles Darwin could have sketched had the Galapagos teemed with Pidgeys rather than birds. Part of the charm stems from the book's scholarly approach, treating Pokémon as worthy of subject for study. Writer Yoshinari Yonehara and artist Chihiro Kinoshita both hold doctorate degrees in animal behavior and ecology.

Why This Promo Card Different

It is common for The Pokémon Company to release promos celebrating big events or brand collaborations. A lot such promotional cards typically highlight the iconic electric rodent that acts as the series face. What distinguishes this new promotion apart however, is the distinctly bigger size. While exact measurements have not been publicly disclosed, its distribution will certainly be highly restricted, and customers limited to just one card with each transaction.

Limiting Reseller Interest

According to a company announcement, a portion of the pop-up items may also be available outside the institution itself. But, broader availability is slated for specific stores within the United Kingdom. Importantly, collectors will not be able to acquire this promo through the online Pokémon Center. Although speculator demand is a given, the setup suggests they will have trouble hoarding mass quantities on this occasion. For those feeling left out, consider an alternative like Pokémon Fossil exhibit headed to the Windy City later this year.

"Every penny of sales made in the museum store and its web shop, including Pokémon products, go toward the Natural History Museum’s charitable mission. That encompasses the efforts of 400 scientists who are scientific inquiry and finding solutions to the planetary emergency," the statement notes.