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To celebrate the launch of a captivating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, an exciting partnership is underway. The Pokémon Company alongside London's Natural History Museum will launch a temporary store stocked with special merchandise. Enthusiasts can look forward to offerings including stationery, plushes, and artwork all inspired by the museum's aesthetic. The big draw, however, will be a specially made Pikachu card, offered as a free bonus at the pop-up. The store will operate from the physical location and online between late January and mid-April.

The Book Behind the Collaboration

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology represents a much-awaited volume filled with stunning illustrations depicting creatures in their wild environments. It's essentially is the kind of research an in-world scientist might publish once adventurers submit their data, alternatively what Charles Darwin might have created if the famous islands were populated by flying-types rather than birds. A key appeal lies in the book's serious treatment, presenting Pokémon as worthy of subject for study. Author Yoshinari Yonehara together with illustrator Chihiro Kinoshita both hold PhDs in animal behavior and ecology.

Why This Special Card Stand Out

The company regularly to issue special edition promos for big events or brand collaborations. Many such collector items typically highlight the famous electric rodent who serves as the series face. The factor setting this new promotion apart is its unusually large dimensions. Although exact measurements have not been publicly disclosed, availability is guaranteed to be highly restricted, with customers able to get just one card per purchase.

Limiting Reseller Activity

Per an official announcement, a portion of the pop-up items will also be sold beyond the museum walls. However, broader availability will only be select retailers within the UK. Critically, collectors will not be able to acquire this promo via the online Pokémon Center. Although reseller interest is a given, the setup suggests they're going to have a difficult time stockpiling large numbers this time around. For those unable to attend, consider the upcoming fossil-themed display headed to Chicago later this year.

"All profits of sales made in the Museum shop and from its web shop, including Pokémon products, go toward the Natural History Museum’s charitable mission. This includes the research of hundreds of researchers dedicated to conducting studies and finding solutions to the planetary emergency," the statement says.