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To celebrate the arrival of the fascinating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, a unique collaboration is underway. Pokémon's creators and the Natural History Museum will launch a pop-up shop featuring special merchandise. Fans will find offerings including plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies all drawing from the museum's theme. The big draw, however, will be a specially made Pikachu card, offered as a free bonus for the pop-up. The store is scheduled both on-site at the museum to online between late January and mid-April.

The Book Behind the Partnership

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology is a highly anticipated volume filled with beautiful illustrations that show creatures in their natural habitats. The concept is what a Pokémon Professor could produce after trainers provide field notes, or what Charles Darwin might have created had the Galapagos were populated by flying-types rather than finches. A key appeal stems from the book's scholarly treatment, treating Pokémon as a legitimate scientific study. Author Yoshinari Yonehara together with illustrator Chihiro Kinoshita both hold PhDs in animal behavior and ecology.

Why This Promo Card Stand Out

The company regularly for The Pokémon Company special edition promos celebrating major tournaments or crossover partnerships. A lot such collector items typically highlight the famous mouse Pokémon that acts as the franchise mascot. What distinguishes this new museum card however, is the unusually large dimensions. While exact measurements were not immediately shared, availability is guaranteed to be highly restricted, and customers able to get just one card with each transaction.

Curbing Reseller Activity

Per an official statement, some of the merchandise may also be available beyond the museum walls. However, broader availability will only be specific stores within the UK. Critically, collectors cannot purchase the card through the online Pokémon Center. While speculator demand is a given, it appears they're going to have a difficult time hoarding mass quantities on this occasion. For those unable to attend, there is an alternative like Pokémon Fossil exhibit coming to the Windy City later this year.

"All profits of sales from the Museum shop and from its web shop, which covers these items, go toward the Natural History Museum’s charitable mission. This includes the efforts of 400 scientists who are conducting studies and finding answers to the planetary emergency," the statement says.