🔗 Share this article

Marking the launch of the fascinating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, an exciting collaboration has been formed. Pokémon's creators and London's Natural History Museum are opening a temporary store featuring special items. Enthusiasts can look forward to products like plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies that are drawing from the museum's aesthetic. The big draw, however, will be a specially made Pikachu card, offered as a free bonus for the pop-up. The store will operate both on-site at the museum and online from January 26 to April 19.

The Book That Inspires the Collaboration

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology is a much-awaited tome packed with stunning illustrations that show Pokémon in their natural habitats. It's essentially is what a Pokémon Professor might publish once adventurers submit their data, or a naturalist's journal could have sketched if the Galapagos teemed with flying-types instead of finches. A key appeal lies in the book's serious treatment, treating Pokémon as a legitimate scientific inquiry. Author Yoshinari Yonehara together with illustrator Chihiro Kinoshita each possess PhDs in ecology and behavioral science.

Why This Promo Card Stand Out

The company regularly for The Pokémon Company to release promos for major tournaments and crossover partnerships. A lot of these promotional cards often feature the iconic electric rodent who serves as the franchise mascot. The factor setting this latest promotion apart however, is the distinctly bigger size. Although exact measurements have not been immediately shared, availability will certainly be strictly limited, and customers able to get just one card with each transaction.

Limiting Speculator Interest

Per a company statement, some of the merchandise will also be sold outside the museum walls. But, a wider release will only be specific stores in the United Kingdom. Critically, collectors will not be able to purchase this promo through the official web shop. Although reseller interest is a given, the setup suggests they will have trouble stockpiling large numbers on this occasion. For those feeling left out, consider the upcoming Pokémon Fossil exhibit coming to the Windy City in the coming months.

"All profits of sales from the Museum shop and from its online store, which covers these items, support the Natural History Museum’s charitable mission. This includes the efforts of hundreds of researchers who are scientific inquiry and finding solutions to the planetary emergency," the statement notes.