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Marking the launch of the fascinating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, a unique partnership is underway. The Pokémon Company and London's Natural History Museum will launch a pop-up shop featuring exclusive items. Fans will find offerings including stationery, plushes, and artwork that are drawing from the institution's aesthetic. For collectors, however, is a limited-edition Pikachu card, given as a free bonus at the pop-up. This shop will operate from the physical location and its web counterpart from January 26 to April 19.

The Book Behind the Collaboration

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology represents a much-awaited volume packed with stunning illustrations depicting Pokémon in their wild environments. The concept is what a Pokémon Professor might publish once adventurers submit their data, alternatively what Charles Darwin could have sketched if the famous islands teemed with Pidgeys instead of finches. Part of the charm stems from the book's serious treatment, treating Pokémon as a legitimate subject for study. Author Yoshinari Yonehara together with artist Chihiro Kinoshita both hold doctorate degrees in ecology and behavioral science.

Why This Special Card Stand Out

The company regularly to issue special edition promos for big events or crossover partnerships. Many of these promotional cards typically highlight the famous electric rodent who serves as the franchise mascot. The factor setting this new museum card however, is the unusually large dimensions. While precise specs were not publicly disclosed, its distribution is guaranteed to be strictly limited, with fans limited to just one card per purchase.

Curbing Speculator Interest

Per an official announcement, a portion of the pop-up items may also be available outside the museum walls. However, a wider release will only be specific stores within the UK. Critically, fans cannot purchase this promo through the online Pokémon Center. 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 headed to the Windy City in the coming months.

"All profits of sales made in the museum store and from its online store, including these items, support the Natural History Museum’s non-profit work. That encompasses the research of 400 scientists who are conducting studies to discover answers to the planetary emergency," the statement says.