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Marking the launch of a captivating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, a unique collaboration has been formed. Pokémon's creators alongside London's Natural History Museum will launch a temporary store featuring exclusive merchandise. Enthusiasts can look forward to products like stationery, plushes, and artwork that are drawing from the institution's theme. The big draw, however, is a limited-edition Pikachu card, given as a gift with purchase for the pop-up. The store is scheduled from the physical location to its web counterpart from January 26 to April 19.

Pokécology Behind the Collaboration

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology is a much-awaited tome filled with beautiful illustrations depicting Pokémon in their natural habitats. The concept is the kind of research an in-world scientist might publish after trainers provide field notes, or what Charles Darwin could have sketched if the famous islands teemed with flying-types rather than finches. A key appeal lies in the book's serious treatment, presenting Pokémon as worthy of subject for inquiry. Writer Yoshinari Yonehara and artist Chihiro Kinoshita both hold doctorate degrees in ecology and behavioral science.

Why This Special Card Different

The company regularly to issue to release cards for major tournaments and crossover partnerships. Many such promotional cards typically highlight the iconic electric rodent who serves as the franchise mascot. The factor setting this new museum card however, is the unusually large size. While exact measurements were not immediately shared, availability is guaranteed to be highly restricted, with fans limited to just one card per purchase.

Curbing Reseller Interest

Per a company announcement, a portion of the pop-up items may also be available outside the institution itself. However, broader availability will only be specific stores within the UK. Importantly, fans will not be able to purchase this promo through the official web shop. Although reseller interest is inevitable, the setup suggests they will have trouble stockpiling large numbers on this occasion. If you're unable to attend, there is an alternative like fossil-themed display headed to Chicago in the coming months.

"All profits from purchases made in the museum store and its online store, including Pokémon products, support the Natural History Museum’s charitable mission. That encompasses the research of hundreds of researchers who are conducting studies and finding answers to the planetary emergency," it notes.