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Marking the arrival of a captivating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, a unique partnership is underway. Pokémon's creators alongside London's Natural History Museum are opening a temporary store stocked with exclusive merchandise. Fans can look forward to products like stationery, plushes, and artwork all drawing from the institution's aesthetic. For collectors, however, will be a specially made Pikachu card, given as a free bonus at the pop-up. This shop will operate from 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 represents a highly anticipated volume filled with stunning illustrations that show Pokémon in their wild environments. The concept like the kind of research an in-world scientist could produce after trainers submit their data, or a naturalist's journal could have sketched had the famous islands teemed with flying-types instead of birds. Part of the charm stems from the book's scholarly approach, presenting Pokémon as worthy of subject for inquiry. Author Yoshinari Yonehara and artist Chihiro Kinoshita each possess PhDs in ecology and behavioral science.

What Makes This Special Card Different

It is common to issue special edition cards for big events or brand collaborations. A lot of these promotional cards typically highlight the famous mouse Pokémon who serves as the franchise mascot. What distinguishes this latest museum card however, is the unusually large dimensions. Although exact measurements were not publicly disclosed, its distribution will certainly be highly restricted, and fans limited to just one card with each transaction.

Limiting Reseller Interest

According to an official statement, a portion of the pop-up items will also be sold beyond the institution itself. However, a wider release is slated for specific stores within the UK. Critically, fans will not be able to acquire the card through the official web shop. Although speculator demand is a given, the setup suggests they will have trouble stockpiling large numbers this time around. If you're feeling left out, there is an alternative like Pokémon Fossil exhibit headed to Chicago later this year.

"Every penny of sales from the Museum shop and its web shop, including these items, support the Natural History Museum’s charitable mission. This includes the research of 400 scientists dedicated to conducting studies to discover solutions to the planetary emergency," it says.