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Marking the launch of the fascinating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, an exciting partnership has been formed. The Pokémon Company and the Natural History Museum will launch a temporary store featuring exclusive items. Enthusiasts will find products like plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies that are inspired by the museum's theme. The big draw, however, will be a limited-edition Pikachu card, given as a free bonus for the pop-up. This shop is scheduled from the physical location to its web counterpart from January 26 to April 19.

Pokécology Behind the Collaboration

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology is a highly anticipated tome filled with beautiful illustrations depicting Pokémon in their wild environments. It's essentially is the kind of research a Pokémon Professor could produce after trainers submit their data, alternatively a naturalist's journal might have created if the Galapagos were populated by flying-types instead of finches. Part of the charm stems from the book's scholarly treatment, presenting Pokémon as a legitimate scientific inquiry. Writer Yoshinari Yonehara and illustrator Chihiro Kinoshita each possess doctorate degrees in animal behavior and ecology.

Why This Special Card Different

It is common for The Pokémon Company special edition cards celebrating major tournaments or brand collaborations. A lot such promotional cards typically highlight the famous electric rodent that acts as the franchise mascot. What distinguishes this latest promotion apart however, is the unusually large size. While exact measurements have not been publicly disclosed, its distribution is guaranteed to be strictly limited, and fans limited to just one card per purchase.

Curbing Reseller Activity

Per a company statement, some of the pop-up items will also be sold outside the museum walls. But, a wider release is slated for specific stores within the UK. Importantly, fans cannot acquire the card via the official web shop. Although speculator demand is a given, the setup suggests they will have trouble hoarding mass quantities this time around. If you're unable to attend, there is an alternative like fossil-themed display coming to the Windy City later this year.

"Every penny from purchases from the museum store and from its web shop, which covers Pokémon products, go toward the Natural History Museum’s non-profit work. That encompasses the efforts of 400 scientists who are conducting studies to discover solutions to the global ecological crisis," the statement notes.