🔗 Share this article

To celebrate the arrival of the fascinating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, a unique collaboration has been formed. The Pokémon Company alongside London's Natural History Museum will launch a temporary store stocked with exclusive merchandise. Fans will find products like stationery, plushes, and artwork all 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. The store will operate both on-site at the museum and its web counterpart between late January and mid-April.

Pokécology That Inspires the Partnership

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology is a much-awaited volume packed with beautiful illustrations that show Pokémon in their natural habitats. The concept like what an in-world scientist could produce after trainers provide field notes, alternatively what Charles Darwin might have created if the famous islands were populated by flying-types rather than birds. Part of the charm lies in the book's serious approach, treating Pokémon as a legitimate subject for study. Author Yoshinari Yonehara together with artist Chihiro Kinoshita each possess doctorate degrees in ecology and behavioral science.

What Makes This Promo Card Stand Out

The company regularly to issue special edition cards celebrating major tournaments and crossover partnerships. Many of these promotional cards typically highlight the iconic mouse Pokémon that acts as the series face. The factor setting this latest museum card however, is the distinctly bigger dimensions. While exact measurements were not publicly disclosed, its distribution will certainly be strictly limited, and customers able to get just one card with each transaction.

Limiting Reseller Activity

Per a company announcement, a portion of the merchandise may also be available outside the institution itself. However, broader availability is slated for select retailers in the UK. Importantly, collectors will not be able to acquire the card through the online Pokémon Center. Although reseller interest is a given, the setup suggests they will have a difficult time stockpiling large numbers on this occasion. For those feeling left out, consider the upcoming fossil-themed display headed to Chicago in the coming months.

"All profits of sales from the Museum shop and its online store, including Pokémon products, go toward the Natural History Museum’s non-profit work. This includes the efforts of hundreds of researchers dedicated to scientific inquiry and finding solutions to the planetary emergency," it notes.