🔗 Share this article

Marking the arrival of the fascinating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, an exciting partnership is underway. Pokémon's creators and London's Natural History Museum are opening a pop-up shop stocked with exclusive merchandise. Fans will find offerings including stationery, plushes, and artwork that are inspired by the museum's aesthetic. The big draw, though, will be a specially made Pikachu card, offered as a free bonus for the pop-up. This shop is scheduled both on-site at the museum and its web counterpart from January 26 to April 19.

Pokécology That Inspires the Partnership

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology is a highly anticipated tome filled with beautiful artwork depicting creatures in their wild environments. The concept like the kind of research an in-world scientist might publish after trainers provide field notes, alternatively a naturalist's journal might have created if the Galapagos teemed with flying-types instead of finches. Part of the charm stems from the book's scholarly treatment, presenting Pokémon as a legitimate subject for study. Author Yoshinari Yonehara together with illustrator Chihiro Kinoshita each possess doctorate degrees in ecology and behavioral science.

Why This Special Card Stand Out

The company regularly to issue special edition promos for big events and crossover partnerships. Many such promotional cards typically highlight the famous mouse Pokémon who serves as the series face. The factor setting this new museum card however, is the unusually large dimensions. Although precise specs have not been immediately shared, availability is guaranteed to be strictly limited, with fans able to get only a single card per purchase.

Curbing Reseller Activity

Per an official statement, a portion of the pop-up items may also be available beyond the museum walls. But, broader availability is slated for specific stores within the United Kingdom. Importantly, fans will not be able to purchase this promo via the online Pokémon Center. Although reseller interest is inevitable, it appears they're going to have a difficult time hoarding mass quantities on this occasion. If you're unable to attend, there is the upcoming Pokémon Fossil exhibit headed to Chicago later this year.

"Every penny of sales from the museum store and its web shop, which covers these items, support the Natural History Museum’s non-profit work. That encompasses the research of 400 scientists who are conducting studies and finding solutions to the global ecological crisis," the statement notes.