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Marking the arrival of the fascinating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, a unique collaboration is underway. Pokémon's creators and the Natural History Museum are opening a temporary store featuring exclusive merchandise. Enthusiasts will find products like stationery, plushes, and artwork that are drawing from the museum's theme. The big draw, though, is a limited-edition Pikachu card, given as a gift with purchase at the pop-up. The store will operate from the physical location to online from January 26 to April 19.

The Book That Inspires the Partnership

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology is a much-awaited volume packed with stunning artwork depicting creatures in their wild environments. It's essentially like what an in-world scientist might publish after adventurers submit their data, alternatively a naturalist's journal might have created had the Galapagos were populated by flying-types rather than finches. Part of the charm stems from the book's scholarly approach, treating Pokémon as worthy of scientific study. Writer Yoshinari Yonehara and illustrator Chihiro Kinoshita both hold PhDs in ecology and behavioral science.

What Makes This Special Card Stand Out

It is common to issue to release promos for major tournaments or brand collaborations. Many such promotional cards often feature the famous mouse Pokémon that acts as the franchise mascot. What distinguishes this latest promotion apart however, is the distinctly bigger size. While exact measurements have not been publicly disclosed, its distribution will certainly be strictly limited, and fans limited to just one card per purchase.

Limiting Speculator Interest

Per a company statement, a portion of the merchandise will also be sold beyond the institution itself. But, broader availability will only be specific stores in the United Kingdom. Importantly, collectors will not be able to purchase the card via the official web shop. While reseller interest is inevitable, the setup suggests they're going to have trouble hoarding mass quantities this time around. If you're unable to attend, there is the upcoming fossil-themed display coming to the Windy City in the coming months.

"Every penny of sales made in the museum store and its online store, which covers these items, go toward the Natural History Museum’s non-profit work. This includes the research of hundreds of researchers dedicated to conducting studies and finding answers to the planetary emergency," the statement notes.