This Special Release Pikachu Promo Seeks to Be Super Effective Against Resellers

Marking the launch of a captivating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, a unique partnership has been formed. The Pokémon Company and the Natural History Museum are opening a temporary store stocked with special items. Enthusiasts can look forward to products like plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies all inspired by the institution's theme. The big draw, however, is a limited-edition Pikachu card, given as a gift with purchase at the pop-up. This shop is scheduled from the physical location to online from January 26 to April 19.

Pokécology That Inspires the Partnership

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology represents a highly anticipated volume packed with beautiful illustrations depicting creatures in their natural habitats. The concept like what a Pokémon Professor might publish after trainers submit their data, alternatively what Charles Darwin could have sketched if the Galapagos were populated by flying-types instead of birds. Part of the charm stems from the book's serious treatment, treating Pokémon as worthy of subject for inquiry. Writer Yoshinari Yonehara and artist Chihiro Kinoshita both hold PhDs in ecology and behavioral science.

What Makes This Special Card Different

It is common to issue to release cards celebrating big events and crossover partnerships. A lot of these promotional cards often feature the iconic mouse Pokémon that acts as the series face. The factor setting this new promotion apart however, is the distinctly bigger dimensions. Although exact measurements were not publicly disclosed, availability is guaranteed to be strictly limited, and fans limited to just one card with each transaction.

Curbing Speculator Interest

Per an official statement, some of the pop-up items may also be available outside the museum walls. However, broader availability will only be select retailers in the UK. Importantly, fans cannot purchase the card through the official web shop. While reseller interest is inevitable, the setup suggests they're going to have trouble hoarding mass quantities on this occasion. If you're unable to attend, consider an alternative like fossil-themed display coming to the Windy City later this year.

"All profits of sales made in the Museum shop and from its web shop, which covers Pokémon products, go toward the Natural History Museum’s non-profit work. This includes the efforts of hundreds of researchers dedicated to conducting studies and finding answers to the planetary emergency," the statement says.