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To celebrate the launch of the fascinating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, a unique partnership has been formed. The Pokémon Company and London's Natural History Museum are opening a temporary store featuring special merchandise. Enthusiasts will find offerings including plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies that are drawing from the institution's theme. The big draw, however, will be a specially made Pikachu card, offered as a free bonus at the pop-up. This shop will operate from on-site at the museum and online from January 26 to April 19.

Pokécology That Inspires the Partnership

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology is a much-awaited volume packed with stunning illustrations that show Pokémon in their natural habitats. It's essentially like what an in-world scientist could produce once trainers submit their data, or what Charles Darwin might have created if the famous islands were populated by Pidgeys rather than birds. A key appeal stems from the book's serious treatment, presenting Pokémon as worthy of scientific study. Writer Yoshinari Yonehara and illustrator Chihiro Kinoshita both hold PhDs in animal behavior and ecology.

What Makes This Promo Card Different

It is common to issue to release promos celebrating major tournaments and brand collaborations. A lot of these collector items often feature the famous electric rodent who serves as the series face. The factor setting this new promotion apart however, is the unusually large dimensions. Although exact measurements were not publicly disclosed, availability will certainly be highly restricted, and fans limited to just one card with each transaction.

Curbing Reseller Interest

Per an official statement, some of the pop-up items may also be available outside the museum walls. But, a wider release is slated for specific stores in the UK. Critically, collectors cannot purchase the card via the official web shop. While reseller interest is a given, it appears they will have a difficult time hoarding mass quantities on this occasion. If you're unable to attend, there is the upcoming Pokémon Fossil exhibit coming to Chicago later this year.

"All profits from purchases from the museum store and from its web shop, which covers Pokémon products, support the Natural History Museum’s non-profit work. That encompasses the research of 400 scientists dedicated to conducting studies to discover answers to the global ecological crisis," the statement says.