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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 the Natural History Museum are opening a pop-up shop featuring special merchandise. Fans can look forward to offerings including stationery, plushes, and artwork all inspired by the institution's aesthetic. For collectors, though, is a limited-edition Pikachu card, given as a free bonus for the pop-up. The store is scheduled from on-site at the museum to its web counterpart between late January and mid-April.

Pokécology Behind the Collaboration

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology represents a highly anticipated tome filled with beautiful illustrations that show Pokémon in their wild environments. The concept like what an in-world scientist could produce once adventurers submit their data, alternatively a naturalist's journal could have sketched had the famous islands were populated by flying-types rather than finches. A key appeal lies in the book's scholarly approach, presenting Pokémon as a legitimate scientific inquiry. Writer Yoshinari Yonehara and artist Chihiro Kinoshita each possess PhDs in animal behavior and ecology.

What Makes This Promo Card Stand Out

The company regularly to issue special edition cards celebrating big events or crossover partnerships. A lot such promotional cards typically highlight the iconic electric rodent who serves as the franchise mascot. The factor setting this latest promotion apart however, is the unusually large size. While exact measurements have not been immediately shared, availability will certainly be highly restricted, with fans able to get just one card with each transaction.

Curbing Speculator Interest

According to a company announcement, a portion of the pop-up items will also be sold outside the museum walls. However, a wider release is slated for specific stores within the UK. Critically, fans will not be able to purchase the card through the online Pokémon Center. While speculator demand is inevitable, the setup suggests they will have a difficult time stockpiling large numbers on this occasion. If you're unable to attend, consider the upcoming Pokémon Fossil exhibit headed to the Windy City later this year.

"Every penny of sales made in the museum store and from its online store, including these items, support the Natural History Museum’s charitable mission. That encompasses the efforts of 400 scientists who are conducting studies and finding solutions to the global ecological crisis," the statement notes.