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To celebrate the arrival of the fascinating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, an exciting collaboration is underway. The Pokémon Company and the Natural History Museum will launch a temporary store stocked with exclusive items. Enthusiasts can look forward to products like stationery, plushes, and artwork that are drawing from the institution's aesthetic. For collectors, though, is a specially made Pikachu card, offered as a free bonus at the pop-up. This shop will operate both the physical location and its web counterpart from January 26 to April 19.

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. It's essentially is what an in-world scientist might publish after trainers submit their data, alternatively a naturalist's journal could have sketched had the famous islands teemed with flying-types instead of finches. Part of the charm stems from the book's scholarly approach, presenting Pokémon as a legitimate subject for inquiry. Writer Yoshinari Yonehara and artist Chihiro Kinoshita both hold doctorate degrees in ecology and behavioral science.

Why This Special Card Stand Out

It is common to issue special edition promos for major tournaments and crossover partnerships. Many of these collector items often feature the iconic mouse Pokémon that acts as the series face. What distinguishes this new museum card however, is the unusually large dimensions. While precise specs were not immediately shared, availability will certainly be highly restricted, and customers limited to only a single card per purchase.

Limiting Reseller Activity

According to a company statement, some of the merchandise may also be available beyond the institution itself. But, a wider release is slated for specific stores in the United Kingdom. Critically, fans will not be able to purchase the card via the official web shop. While speculator demand is inevitable, it appears they will have a difficult time stockpiling large numbers on this occasion. For those unable to attend, consider the upcoming fossil-themed display headed to Chicago later this year.

"All profits from purchases made in the museum store and its online store, including these items, go toward the Natural History Museum’s non-profit work. That encompasses the research of 400 scientists who are scientific inquiry and finding answers to the global ecological crisis," it says.