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To celebrate the launch of a captivating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, a unique collaboration is underway. Pokémon's creators alongside London's Natural History Museum will launch a temporary store stocked with exclusive merchandise. Enthusiasts can look forward to products like stationery, plushes, and artwork that are drawing from the institution's theme. The big draw, however, is a limited-edition Pikachu card, offered as a free bonus for the pop-up. The store is scheduled from on-site at the museum to online from January 26 to April 19.

The Book That Inspires the Partnership

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology is a highly anticipated volume packed with beautiful illustrations depicting creatures in their natural habitats. It's essentially is what an in-world scientist might publish once trainers submit their data, or what Charles Darwin might have created had the famous islands were populated by flying-types rather than finches. A key appeal stems from the book's scholarly treatment, treating Pokémon as a legitimate scientific study. Author Yoshinari Yonehara together with illustrator Chihiro Kinoshita both hold PhDs in ecology and behavioral science.

Why This Special Card Different

It is common for The Pokémon Company special edition cards celebrating big events and brand collaborations. Many of these collector items often feature the famous electric rodent that acts as the franchise mascot. What distinguishes this latest promotion apart is its distinctly bigger size. While exact measurements have not been immediately shared, availability is guaranteed to be highly restricted, with customers able to get only a single card per purchase.

Curbing Reseller Interest

According to a company statement, a portion of the merchandise may also be available beyond the institution itself. However, a wider release is slated for specific stores within the United Kingdom. Critically, collectors cannot acquire the card through the online Pokémon Center. Although speculator demand is a given, the setup suggests they're going to have a difficult time hoarding mass quantities this time around. For those unable to attend, there is the upcoming fossil-themed display headed to Chicago later this year.

"All profits from purchases made in the museum store and its online store, which covers Pokémon products, go toward the Natural History Museum’s non-profit work. That encompasses the efforts of hundreds of researchers who are scientific inquiry and finding answers to the global ecological crisis," it says.