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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. The Pokémon Company alongside the Natural History Museum will launch a pop-up shop stocked with special items. Fans can look forward to products like plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies that are inspired by the museum's aesthetic. For collectors, though, will be a limited-edition Pikachu card, given as a free bonus for the pop-up. This shop is scheduled from the physical location and its web counterpart from January 26 to April 19.

The Book Behind the Collaboration

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology represents a much-awaited volume packed with beautiful illustrations depicting Pokémon in their natural habitats. It's essentially is what an in-world scientist might publish after trainers submit their data, or a naturalist's journal could have sketched if the famous islands were populated by flying-types rather than finches. Part of the charm stems from the book's serious treatment, treating Pokémon as worthy of subject for study. Author Yoshinari Yonehara and artist Chihiro Kinoshita both hold doctorate degrees in ecology and behavioral science.

What Makes This Promo Card Stand Out

The company regularly for The Pokémon Company special edition promos for major tournaments or brand collaborations. Many such promotional cards often feature the iconic mouse Pokémon that acts as the series face. The factor setting this new museum card however, is the unusually large size. While precise specs have not been publicly disclosed, availability will certainly be strictly limited, and fans able to get just one card per purchase.

Curbing Reseller Activity

According to a company statement, some of the merchandise may also be available beyond the museum walls. However, a wider release is slated for select retailers in the United Kingdom. Importantly, collectors cannot purchase this promo through the official web shop. While speculator demand is a given, it appears they're going to have trouble hoarding mass quantities this time around. If you're unable to attend, there is the upcoming fossil-themed display coming to the Windy City later this year.

"All profits from purchases made in the museum store and from its web shop, including Pokémon products, support the Natural History Museum’s non-profit work. This includes the efforts of 400 scientists dedicated to conducting studies to discover solutions to the global ecological crisis," the statement says.