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Marking the arrival of a captivating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, a unique collaboration has been formed. Pokémon's creators alongside the Natural History Museum are opening a temporary store featuring special merchandise. Fans can look forward to offerings including plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies all drawing from the institution's aesthetic. For collectors, however, will be a limited-edition Pikachu card, given as a free bonus at the pop-up. The store is scheduled from the physical location to online between late January and mid-April.

Pokécology That Inspires the Collaboration

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology represents a highly anticipated volume filled with stunning illustrations that show creatures in their natural habitats. The concept like the kind of research an in-world scientist could produce after trainers submit their data, or what Charles Darwin might have created had the Galapagos were populated by flying-types rather than finches. Part of the charm lies in the book's serious approach, treating Pokémon as worthy of scientific inquiry. Writer Yoshinari Yonehara and artist Chihiro Kinoshita both hold doctorate degrees in animal behavior and ecology.

What Makes This Promo Card Different

It is common to issue to release cards celebrating big events and crossover partnerships. A lot of these collector items typically highlight the iconic electric rodent that acts as the franchise mascot. What distinguishes this new museum card however, is the unusually large size. Although exact measurements have not been immediately shared, availability is guaranteed to be highly restricted, with fans able to get only a single card per purchase.

Curbing Reseller Activity

According to a company announcement, a portion of the pop-up items will also be sold beyond the institution itself. However, a wider release is slated for select retailers in the UK. Critically, fans will not be able to purchase the card through the official web shop. While speculator demand is inevitable, the setup suggests they will have trouble stockpiling large numbers on this occasion. If you're feeling left out, there is an alternative like fossil-themed display coming to the Windy City later this year.

"All profits of sales from the museum store and its web shop, including these items, go toward the Natural History Museum’s charitable mission. That encompasses the efforts of 400 scientists dedicated to scientific inquiry and finding solutions to the global ecological crisis," the statement says.