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Marking the launch of the fascinating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, a unique collaboration is underway. The Pokémon Company alongside the Natural History Museum are opening a temporary store featuring special items. Fans can look forward to products like plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies that are inspired by the museum's theme. For collectors, though, is a specially made Pikachu card, offered as a gift with purchase for the pop-up. This shop is scheduled both the physical location to its web counterpart between late January and mid-April.

Pokécology Behind the Collaboration

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology represents a highly anticipated volume filled with beautiful illustrations depicting Pokémon in their natural habitats. It's essentially is the kind of research an in-world scientist might publish after adventurers submit their data, alternatively a naturalist's journal might have created had the famous islands were populated by flying-types instead of birds. A key appeal lies in the book's scholarly approach, treating Pokémon as worthy of subject for inquiry. Author Yoshinari Yonehara together with artist Chihiro Kinoshita both hold PhDs in animal behavior and ecology.

Why This Special Card Different

The company regularly to issue special edition promos celebrating major tournaments and crossover partnerships. A lot of these promotional cards 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 have not been immediately shared, its distribution will certainly be strictly limited, with fans limited to only a single card per purchase.

Curbing Reseller Activity

Per a company statement, a portion of the merchandise will also be sold outside the institution itself. However, a wider release will only be select retailers within the UK. Importantly, collectors will not be able to purchase this promo via the online Pokémon Center. While reseller interest is inevitable, it appears they're going to have trouble hoarding mass quantities on this occasion. For those unable to attend, consider an alternative like Pokémon Fossil exhibit coming to the Windy City later this year.

"Every penny of sales made in the museum store and its web shop, which covers these items, support the Natural History Museum’s non-profit work. That encompasses the research of 400 scientists dedicated to conducting studies to discover solutions to the global ecological crisis," it says.