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To celebrate the launch of a captivating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, a unique collaboration is underway. Pokémon's creators alongside London's Natural History Museum will launch a pop-up shop stocked with special items. Enthusiasts will find offerings including stationery, plushes, and artwork that are drawing from the institution's theme. For collectors, though, will be a specially made Pikachu card, offered as a free bonus for the pop-up. The store will operate both the physical location and online from January 26 to April 19.

The Book Behind the Partnership

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology represents a highly anticipated volume filled with beautiful illustrations that show creatures in their wild environments. It's essentially like what a Pokémon Professor could produce once trainers provide field notes, alternatively a naturalist's journal might have created had the Galapagos teemed with Pidgeys rather than finches. A key appeal stems from the book's scholarly treatment, presenting Pokémon as a legitimate scientific inquiry. Author Yoshinari Yonehara together with artist Chihiro Kinoshita both hold PhDs in ecology and behavioral science.

What Makes This Special Card Different

It is common for The Pokémon Company to release promos for major tournaments or crossover partnerships. A lot of these promotional cards typically highlight the famous mouse Pokémon that acts as the franchise mascot. What distinguishes this latest promotion apart however, is the distinctly bigger size. Although exact measurements have not been publicly disclosed, availability is guaranteed to be highly restricted, and customers able to get only a single card per purchase.

Limiting Speculator Interest

According to a company statement, some of the pop-up items may also be available outside the museum walls. However, broader availability will only be specific stores in the UK. Importantly, collectors will not be able to acquire the card via the online Pokémon Center. While speculator demand is a given, it appears they will have trouble hoarding mass quantities on this occasion. If you're unable to attend, there is the upcoming fossil-themed display headed to the Windy City in the coming months.

"Every penny from purchases made in the Museum shop and its online store, 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 notes.