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Marking the arrival of a captivating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, an exciting collaboration has been formed. The Pokémon Company and London's Natural History Museum are opening a pop-up shop stocked with exclusive merchandise. Enthusiasts can look forward to products like plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies all drawing from the institution's aesthetic. The big draw, however, is a limited-edition Pikachu card, offered as a free bonus for the pop-up. This shop will operate both the physical location to its web counterpart from January 26 to April 19.

Pokécology Behind the Partnership

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology represents a highly anticipated tome filled with beautiful artwork that show Pokémon in their wild environments. The concept like the kind of research an in-world scientist could produce after adventurers submit their data, alternatively a naturalist's journal could have sketched if the Galapagos were populated by flying-types instead of birds. Part of the charm lies in the book's serious treatment, treating Pokémon as worthy of subject for inquiry. Writer Yoshinari Yonehara together with illustrator Chihiro Kinoshita each possess PhDs in animal behavior and ecology.

What Makes This Promo Card Different

The company regularly for The Pokémon Company to release promos celebrating big events or brand collaborations. A lot such promotional cards often feature the famous mouse Pokémon that acts as the franchise mascot. What distinguishes this latest promotion apart is its unusually large dimensions. Although exact measurements were not immediately shared, availability is guaranteed to be strictly limited, with fans able to get only a single card per purchase.

Curbing Reseller Activity

Per a company statement, a portion of the merchandise may also be available outside the museum walls. However, a wider release will only be select retailers within the United Kingdom. Critically, fans will not be able to purchase the card via the official web shop. While speculator demand is a given, the setup suggests they're going to have trouble hoarding mass quantities this time around. For those feeling left out, consider the upcoming fossil-themed display headed to Chicago later this year.

"Every penny from purchases from the Museum shop and its web shop, which covers these items, support the Natural History Museum’s non-profit work. That encompasses the research of hundreds of researchers dedicated to conducting studies and finding answers to the global ecological crisis," it says.