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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 London's Natural History Museum are opening a temporary store featuring special items. Fans can look forward to offerings including plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies that are inspired by the institution's aesthetic. For collectors, though, is a specially made Pikachu card, offered as a free bonus for the pop-up. The store will operate from on-site at the museum to its web counterpart from January 26 to April 19.

The Book That Inspires the Partnership

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology represents a much-awaited tome filled with beautiful illustrations that show Pokémon in their wild environments. The concept like what a Pokémon Professor might publish after trainers submit their data, alternatively what Charles Darwin could have sketched if the famous islands teemed with flying-types rather than finches. A key appeal stems from the book's scholarly treatment, treating Pokémon as a legitimate subject for inquiry. Author Yoshinari Yonehara and artist Chihiro Kinoshita both hold doctorate degrees in ecology and behavioral science.

What Makes This Promo Card Different

It is common for The Pokémon Company special edition promos for major tournaments or brand collaborations. Many such collector items often feature the iconic mouse Pokémon who serves as the series face. The factor setting this new promotion apart however, is the distinctly bigger dimensions. While precise specs have not been publicly disclosed, its distribution will certainly be strictly limited, and fans limited to only a single card with each transaction.

Curbing Reseller Activity

According to a company announcement, some of the pop-up items may also be available outside the museum walls. But, broader availability is slated for select retailers within the UK. Critically, fans cannot acquire the card via the official web shop. Although speculator demand is inevitable, it appears they're going to have trouble stockpiling large numbers this time around. For those unable to attend, consider the upcoming fossil-themed display coming to the Windy City later this year.

"Every penny from purchases made in the museum store and its web shop, including these items, go toward the Natural History Museum’s charitable mission. That encompasses the efforts of 400 scientists dedicated to scientific inquiry to discover answers to the planetary emergency," it says.