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Marking the launch of the fascinating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, a unique partnership is underway. The Pokémon Company and London's Natural History Museum are opening a temporary store featuring special items. Fans will find offerings including plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies that are inspired by the museum's aesthetic. For collectors, however, will be a specially made Pikachu card, given as a free bonus for the pop-up. This shop is scheduled both the physical location and its web counterpart from January 26 to April 19.

The Book Behind the Collaboration

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology is a much-awaited volume filled with beautiful artwork depicting Pokémon in their natural habitats. The concept like what an in-world scientist might publish once trainers submit their data, alternatively a naturalist's journal could have sketched had the famous islands teemed with Pidgeys rather than finches. A key appeal stems from the book's scholarly treatment, treating Pokémon as worthy of subject for study. Author Yoshinari Yonehara and artist Chihiro Kinoshita each possess PhDs in animal behavior and ecology.

Why This Promo Card Stand Out

It is common to issue special edition promos for major tournaments and crossover partnerships. Many such promotional cards often feature the famous mouse Pokémon who serves as the franchise mascot. What distinguishes this latest promotion apart is its distinctly bigger dimensions. Although precise specs have not been publicly disclosed, availability will certainly be highly restricted, with fans able to get only a single card with each transaction.

Curbing Reseller Activity

Per a company statement, some of the pop-up items may also be available outside the institution itself. However, a wider release is slated for select retailers in the United Kingdom. Critically, fans will not be able to acquire the card through the official web shop. While reseller interest is inevitable, it appears they're going to have a difficult time hoarding mass quantities this time around. For those unable to attend, consider the upcoming fossil-themed display headed to the Windy City later this year.

"Every penny of sales made in the Museum shop and its web shop, including these items, go toward the Natural History Museum’s non-profit work. That encompasses the research of hundreds of researchers who are conducting studies to discover solutions to the planetary emergency," the statement notes.