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To celebrate the arrival of a captivating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, a unique collaboration has been formed. Pokémon's creators alongside London's Natural History Museum are opening a temporary store stocked with exclusive items. Enthusiasts will find products like plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies that are drawing from the institution's theme. For collectors, though, will be a specially made Pikachu card, offered as a gift with purchase for the pop-up. This shop is scheduled from on-site at the museum to online from January 26 to April 19.

Pokécology Behind the Collaboration

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology is a much-awaited tome packed with stunning artwork depicting Pokémon in their natural habitats. It's essentially like what an in-world scientist could produce after adventurers provide field notes, alternatively what Charles Darwin might have created had the Galapagos teemed with Pidgeys rather than finches. Part of the charm stems from the book's scholarly approach, presenting Pokémon as a legitimate subject for inquiry. Writer Yoshinari Yonehara together with artist Chihiro Kinoshita both hold doctorate degrees in ecology and behavioral science.

Why This Special Card Stand Out

It is common for The Pokémon Company special edition promos for big events or crossover partnerships. Many such promotional cards often feature the famous electric rodent that acts as the franchise mascot. What distinguishes this new promotion apart is its unusually large size. While precise specs were not immediately shared, availability will certainly be highly restricted, and fans limited to just one card per purchase.

Limiting Speculator Activity

According to a company statement, some of the merchandise will also be sold outside the institution itself. However, a wider release will only be select retailers in the United Kingdom. Importantly, collectors cannot acquire the card via the online Pokémon Center. Although reseller interest is a given, the setup suggests they will have a difficult time hoarding mass quantities this time around. If you're feeling left out, there is an alternative like fossil-themed display headed to the Windy City in the coming months.

"Every penny of sales from the Museum shop and from its web shop, which covers these items, support the Natural History Museum’s non-profit work. This includes the research of 400 scientists who are conducting studies and finding solutions to the global ecological crisis," the statement says.