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Marking the launch of a captivating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, an exciting partnership is underway. Pokémon's creators and the Natural History Museum will launch a temporary store featuring special items. Enthusiasts will find products like plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies all drawing from the institution's theme. The big draw, however, will be a specially made Pikachu card, given as a free bonus at the pop-up. This shop will operate from on-site at the museum and its web counterpart between late January and mid-April.

Pokécology That Inspires the Partnership

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology is a much-awaited tome filled with beautiful artwork depicting Pokémon in their wild environments. The concept is what an in-world scientist might publish after trainers submit their data, or what Charles Darwin might have created had the Galapagos teemed with Pidgeys instead of birds. Part of the charm stems from the book's scholarly treatment, presenting Pokémon as a legitimate subject for study. Author Yoshinari Yonehara together with artist Chihiro Kinoshita both hold PhDs in animal behavior and ecology.

What Makes This Special Card Stand Out

The company regularly to issue to release promos for major tournaments or brand collaborations. Many such promotional cards typically highlight the famous mouse Pokémon who serves as the franchise mascot. What distinguishes this latest museum card however, is the unusually large dimensions. Although precise specs have not been publicly disclosed, its distribution is guaranteed to be highly restricted, with customers limited to just one card per purchase.

Limiting Speculator Activity

According to a company announcement, a portion of the pop-up items will also be sold beyond the museum walls. However, broader availability will only be select retailers in the United Kingdom. Importantly, collectors will not be able to purchase this promo through the online Pokémon Center. While speculator demand is inevitable, it appears they're going to have a difficult time stockpiling large numbers this time around. For those unable to attend, there is the upcoming fossil-themed display coming to the Windy City later this year.

"All profits of sales made in the museum store and from its online store, which covers these items, go toward the Natural History Museum’s charitable mission. That encompasses the efforts of hundreds of researchers dedicated to conducting studies and finding solutions to the global ecological crisis," it says.