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Marking the launch of the fascinating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, a unique partnership has been formed. Pokémon's creators alongside the Natural History Museum will launch a temporary store stocked with exclusive merchandise. Fans can look forward to products like stationery, plushes, and artwork all inspired by the institution's theme. For collectors, though, will be a limited-edition Pikachu card, given as a free bonus at the pop-up. This shop will operate both the physical location to online between late January and mid-April.

The Book That Inspires the Partnership

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology represents a much-awaited volume packed with stunning artwork that show Pokémon in their natural habitats. The concept is the kind of research a Pokémon Professor could produce after adventurers submit their data, alternatively a naturalist's journal might have created had the famous islands teemed with flying-types instead of finches. A key appeal lies in the book's scholarly treatment, treating Pokémon as worthy of subject for inquiry. Author Yoshinari Yonehara and illustrator Chihiro Kinoshita each possess PhDs in animal behavior and ecology.

Why This Special Card Stand Out

The company regularly to issue to release cards for big events and crossover partnerships. Many of these collector items typically highlight the famous electric rodent who serves as the series face. What distinguishes this new museum card is its unusually large dimensions. While exact measurements were not publicly disclosed, its distribution is guaranteed to be highly restricted, and fans limited to just one card with each transaction.

Limiting Reseller Interest

Per a company announcement, a portion of the pop-up items may also be available outside the museum walls. But, broader availability is slated for select retailers in the United Kingdom. Critically, collectors will not be able to purchase the card via the online Pokémon Center. Although speculator demand is a given, the setup suggests they will have a difficult time hoarding mass quantities on this occasion. For those unable to attend, consider the upcoming Pokémon Fossil exhibit headed to Chicago in the coming months.

"All profits of sales from the museum store and from its online store, including Pokémon products, go toward the Natural History Museum’s charitable mission. This includes the efforts of hundreds of researchers who are scientific inquiry to discover solutions to the global ecological crisis," the statement says.