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To celebrate the launch of the fascinating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, a unique partnership has been formed. The Pokémon Company alongside the Natural History Museum will launch a pop-up shop stocked with exclusive merchandise. Enthusiasts will find products like plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies all drawing from the museum's aesthetic. For collectors, though, is a limited-edition Pikachu card, given as a gift with purchase at the pop-up. The store is scheduled from the physical location to its web counterpart between late January and mid-April.

The Book Behind the Partnership

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology is a highly anticipated volume filled with stunning illustrations depicting Pokémon in their natural habitats. The concept like the kind of research an in-world scientist might publish after adventurers submit their data, alternatively a naturalist's journal might have created had the famous islands teemed with flying-types instead of birds. A key appeal stems from the book's serious approach, presenting Pokémon as a legitimate subject for inquiry. Writer Yoshinari Yonehara and artist Chihiro Kinoshita each possess PhDs in ecology and behavioral science.

Why This Special Card Different

The company regularly to issue special edition cards celebrating big events or brand collaborations. Many of these collector items typically highlight the famous mouse Pokémon that acts as the series face. What distinguishes this latest promotion apart however, is the unusually large dimensions. Although exact measurements have not been immediately shared, its distribution is guaranteed to be highly restricted, and fans limited to only a single card per purchase.

Limiting Reseller Activity

According to an official announcement, some of the merchandise may also be available outside the institution itself. However, a wider release is slated for select retailers within the UK. Critically, collectors will not be able to acquire the card via the official web shop. While reseller interest is a given, it appears they will have a difficult time hoarding mass quantities on this occasion. If you're feeling left out, there is an alternative like Pokémon Fossil exhibit headed to Chicago later this year.

"All profits of sales from the Museum shop and from its online store, which covers Pokémon products, support the Natural History Museum’s charitable mission. This includes the research of hundreds of researchers who are conducting studies and finding answers to the planetary emergency," the statement says.