🔗 Share this article

Marking the arrival of the fascinating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, an exciting partnership has been formed. The Pokémon Company alongside the Natural History Museum are opening a temporary store stocked with exclusive merchandise. Fans can look forward to offerings including plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies all inspired by the institution's aesthetic. The big draw, however, is a limited-edition Pikachu card, offered as a free bonus for the pop-up. The store will operate both on-site at the museum 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 tome packed with stunning artwork that show creatures in their natural habitats. It's essentially is what a Pokémon Professor might publish once trainers submit their data, alternatively what Charles Darwin might have created had the famous islands were populated by flying-types rather than finches. A key appeal stems from the book's serious approach, presenting Pokémon as worthy of scientific study. Author Yoshinari Yonehara and artist Chihiro Kinoshita both hold doctorate degrees in ecology and behavioral science.

What Makes This Promo Card Stand Out

It is common for The Pokémon Company special edition promos for major tournaments or crossover partnerships. Many such collector items typically highlight the iconic mouse Pokémon that acts as the series face. The factor setting this new museum card however, is the unusually large size. While exact measurements were not publicly disclosed, availability is guaranteed to be highly restricted, with fans able to get just one card with each transaction.

Curbing Reseller Activity

Per an official statement, a portion of the pop-up items will also be sold beyond the institution itself. But, a wider release is slated for select retailers in the UK. Importantly, fans will not be able to acquire this promo through the online Pokémon Center. While speculator demand is inevitable, it appears they're going to have a difficult time stockpiling large numbers on this occasion. For those unable to attend, there is the upcoming fossil-themed display coming to Chicago later this year.

"Every penny of sales made in the museum store and its web shop, which covers these items, go toward the Natural History Museum’s charitable mission. That encompasses the research of 400 scientists who are conducting studies and finding answers to the planetary emergency," it says.