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To celebrate the launch of a captivating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, a unique collaboration is underway. Pokémon's creators and London's Natural History Museum are opening a temporary store stocked with special merchandise. Enthusiasts can look forward to products like plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies all inspired by the institution's aesthetic. For collectors, however, is a specially made Pikachu card, given as a gift with purchase at the pop-up. The store will operate both the physical location to its web counterpart from January 26 to April 19.

Pokécology Behind the Collaboration

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology is a highly anticipated volume filled with beautiful illustrations depicting Pokémon in their wild environments. The concept like the kind of research an in-world scientist could produce once trainers provide field notes, or a naturalist's journal might have created had the Galapagos were populated by Pidgeys rather than birds. Part of the charm stems from the book's serious treatment, treating Pokémon as a legitimate subject for inquiry. Author Yoshinari Yonehara together with artist Chihiro Kinoshita both hold PhDs in ecology and behavioral science.

Why This Promo Card Different

The company regularly for The Pokémon Company to release promos for major tournaments and brand collaborations. Many of these promotional cards often feature the famous mouse Pokémon that acts as the series face. What distinguishes this new museum card is its unusually large dimensions. While precise specs were not publicly disclosed, availability will certainly be highly restricted, with customers able to get just one card per purchase.

Limiting Reseller Activity

Per a company announcement, a portion of the pop-up items will also be sold beyond the institution itself. However, a wider release will only be specific stores within the UK. Critically, collectors cannot acquire this promo through the online Pokémon Center. While speculator demand is a given, the setup suggests they're going to have a difficult time hoarding mass quantities this time around. For those feeling left out, consider an alternative like Pokémon Fossil exhibit headed to Chicago in the coming months.

"All profits from purchases made in the museum store and its online store, including these items, go toward the Natural History Museum’s non-profit work. That encompasses the efforts of hundreds of researchers who are conducting studies to discover solutions to the global ecological crisis," it says.