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Marking the launch of a captivating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, a unique partnership is underway. Pokémon's creators and the Natural History Museum are opening a pop-up shop stocked with exclusive items. Enthusiasts can look forward to offerings including stationery, plushes, and artwork that are inspired by the museum's theme. The big draw, though, will be a limited-edition Pikachu card, offered as a gift with purchase at the pop-up. This shop will operate from the physical location and online between late January and mid-April.

Pokécology Behind the Collaboration

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology represents a much-awaited tome filled with stunning artwork depicting Pokémon in their natural habitats. It's essentially like the kind of research a Pokémon Professor could produce after adventurers submit their data, alternatively a naturalist's journal might have created had the Galapagos teemed with flying-types rather than birds. A key appeal lies in the book's scholarly treatment, treating Pokémon as worthy of scientific inquiry. Writer Yoshinari Yonehara and illustrator Chihiro Kinoshita each possess doctorate degrees in ecology and behavioral science.

Why This Special Card Different

It is common to issue special edition cards for major tournaments or brand collaborations. A lot of these promotional cards typically highlight the famous mouse Pokémon who serves as the series face. The factor setting this latest museum card however, is the distinctly bigger size. Although exact measurements have not been publicly disclosed, its distribution will certainly be strictly limited, and customers able to get only a single card per purchase.

Limiting Reseller Activity

According to an official statement, a portion of the pop-up items may also be available outside the museum walls. However, broader availability is slated for select retailers in the United Kingdom. Critically, fans cannot acquire the card via the official web shop. While reseller interest is inevitable, the setup suggests they will have trouble hoarding mass quantities this time around. If you're unable to attend, there is the upcoming fossil-themed display coming to the Windy City later this year.

"Every penny from purchases from the Museum shop and from its online store, including Pokémon products, go toward the Natural History Museum’s charitable mission. This includes the efforts of 400 scientists dedicated to conducting studies to discover solutions to the global ecological crisis," it says.