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To celebrate the arrival of the fascinating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, an exciting collaboration is underway. The Pokémon Company alongside London's Natural History Museum will launch a pop-up shop stocked with exclusive items. Enthusiasts will find products like plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies all inspired by the institution's aesthetic. The big draw, however, will be a specially made Pikachu card, offered as a gift with purchase at the pop-up. The store will operate both the physical location to online between late January and mid-April.

Pokécology Behind the Partnership

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology is a highly anticipated tome filled with stunning artwork that show creatures in their natural habitats. It's essentially like what an in-world scientist could produce after adventurers provide field notes, alternatively a naturalist's journal might have created if the famous islands teemed with flying-types rather than finches. A key appeal stems from the book's serious approach, presenting Pokémon as worthy of subject for inquiry. Writer Yoshinari Yonehara and illustrator Chihiro Kinoshita each possess PhDs in ecology and behavioral science.

Why This Special Card Different

The company regularly to issue to release promos for major tournaments and crossover partnerships. A lot such collector items often feature the iconic electric rodent that acts as the series face. What distinguishes this new museum card however, is the distinctly bigger dimensions. Although exact measurements were not publicly disclosed, availability is guaranteed to be strictly limited, and fans limited to just one card per purchase.

Limiting Speculator Activity

Per an official announcement, a portion of the merchandise will also be sold beyond the museum walls. However, broader availability will only be select retailers in the United Kingdom. Critically, fans will not be able to purchase the card via the online Pokémon Center. Although reseller interest is a given, it appears they will have trouble stockpiling large numbers this time around. For those feeling left out, consider the upcoming Pokémon Fossil exhibit coming to the Windy City later this year.

"Every penny of sales made in the Museum shop and its web shop, which covers Pokémon products, go toward the Natural History Museum’s charitable mission. This includes the research of 400 scientists dedicated to conducting studies to discover answers to the planetary emergency," the statement says.