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Marking the launch of the fascinating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, a unique partnership has been formed. Pokémon's creators alongside London's Natural History Museum are opening a pop-up shop stocked with special items. Fans can look forward to products like plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies all inspired by the institution's aesthetic. The big draw, however, will be a specially made Pikachu card, given as a free bonus for the pop-up. The store is scheduled both on-site at the museum and online between late January and mid-April.

The Book That Inspires the Collaboration

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology represents a much-awaited volume packed with beautiful artwork that show Pokémon in their wild environments. It's essentially like the kind of research a Pokémon Professor could produce once trainers provide field notes, or a naturalist's journal might have created had the Galapagos teemed with flying-types instead of birds. Part of the charm stems from the book's scholarly approach, presenting Pokémon as worthy of scientific study. Author Yoshinari Yonehara and illustrator Chihiro Kinoshita each possess PhDs in ecology and behavioral science.

What Makes This Special Card Different

The company regularly for The Pokémon Company special edition cards for major tournaments and brand collaborations. A lot of these collector items typically highlight the iconic mouse Pokémon who serves as the franchise mascot. What distinguishes this latest promotion apart is its distinctly bigger size. While exact measurements have not been immediately shared, its distribution will certainly be highly restricted, with customers able to get only a single card per purchase.

Limiting Reseller Activity

According to an official statement, a portion of the merchandise will also be sold beyond the museum walls. However, a wider release will only be specific stores within the United Kingdom. Importantly, collectors cannot purchase the card via the online Pokémon Center. Although speculator demand is inevitable, it appears they will have trouble hoarding mass quantities on this occasion. For those unable to attend, there is an alternative like Pokémon Fossil exhibit coming to Chicago later this year.

"Every penny of sales made in the Museum shop and its online store, including Pokémon products, go toward the Natural History Museum’s non-profit work. This includes the research of 400 scientists who are scientific inquiry and finding solutions to the global ecological crisis," the statement says.