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To celebrate the arrival of the fascinating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, a unique collaboration has been formed. The Pokémon Company and London's Natural History Museum are opening a temporary store stocked with exclusive items. Enthusiasts will find products like plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies all inspired by the museum's theme. For collectors, though, will be a limited-edition Pikachu card, given as a free bonus for the pop-up. The store will operate both on-site at the museum and its web counterpart from January 26 to April 19.

Pokécology That Inspires the Collaboration

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology represents a much-awaited tome packed with stunning illustrations that show creatures in their wild environments. The concept is what an in-world scientist could produce after adventurers submit their data, or what Charles Darwin could have sketched had the Galapagos teemed with flying-types instead of birds. Part of the charm stems from the book's scholarly approach, presenting Pokémon as worthy of scientific inquiry. Writer Yoshinari Yonehara and artist Chihiro Kinoshita both hold PhDs in animal behavior and ecology.

What Makes This Special Card Different

It is common for The Pokémon Company to release promos for big events or crossover partnerships. A lot such collector items typically highlight the famous mouse Pokémon who serves as the series face. What distinguishes this latest promotion apart however, is the unusually large dimensions. Although precise specs have not been immediately shared, availability is guaranteed to be highly restricted, and customers able to get only a single card with each transaction.

Curbing Reseller Activity

According to a company statement, a portion of the pop-up items may also be available outside the museum walls. But, broader availability will only be specific stores within the United Kingdom. Importantly, collectors cannot acquire this promo via the official web shop. Although speculator demand is a given, it appears they will have a difficult time stockpiling large numbers this time around. For those unable to attend, there is the upcoming fossil-themed display headed to Chicago in the coming months.

"All profits from purchases from the Museum shop and its online store, including these items, support the Natural History Museum’s charitable mission. That encompasses the efforts of 400 scientists who are conducting studies and finding solutions to the planetary emergency," the statement says.