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To celebrate the launch of the fascinating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, a unique collaboration has been formed. Pokémon's creators alongside the Natural History Museum will launch a pop-up shop featuring special merchandise. Enthusiasts can look forward to products like stationery, plushes, and artwork all drawing from the institution's theme. The big draw, though, is a limited-edition Pikachu card, offered as a free bonus at the pop-up. This shop will operate from on-site at the museum to online between late January and mid-April.

The Book Behind the Collaboration

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology represents a much-awaited tome packed with stunning illustrations depicting creatures in their wild environments. It's essentially is the kind of research an in-world scientist could produce after adventurers submit their data, or a naturalist's journal could have sketched if the Galapagos were populated by flying-types instead of finches. Part of the charm stems from the book's scholarly approach, treating Pokémon as worthy of subject for study. Writer Yoshinari Yonehara and illustrator Chihiro Kinoshita each possess doctorate degrees in ecology and behavioral science.

What Makes This Special Card Stand Out

The company regularly to issue to release promos for major tournaments and brand collaborations. A lot of these promotional cards often feature the famous electric rodent who serves as the franchise mascot. What distinguishes this latest museum card is its unusually large size. Although precise specs were not immediately shared, availability will certainly be highly restricted, with customers limited to only a single card with each transaction.

Curbing Speculator Activity

Per an official statement, some of the merchandise will also be sold outside the museum walls. However, a wider release will only be specific stores within the United Kingdom. Critically, fans cannot purchase this promo via the online Pokémon Center. While reseller interest is inevitable, it appears they're going to have trouble hoarding mass quantities this time around. If you're 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 shop and its online store, which covers these items, support the Natural History Museum’s non-profit work. That encompasses the efforts of 400 scientists dedicated to scientific inquiry and finding answers to the global ecological crisis," it notes.