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Pokémon's collaboration with the European Space Agency has officially led to a merch drop. The new collection includes two new Pikachu plushies, listed at $29.99, which feature the electric-type Pokemon in two versions of the ESA space suit.
Recognize the design? The new plush is modelled after the Pikachu plush ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot took on her flight to the International Space Station earlier this year. The collection also includes apparel, pins, and plenty of TCG accessories, now available directly from The Pokémon Center.
Pokemon x ESA Collection Drops Ahead of World Space Week
The collaboration between Pokémon and ESA kicked off on April 11, when the original astronaut Pikachu plush was launched into space. The plush spent a grand total of 67 days in orbit at the International Space Station, circling Earth over a thousand times.
Now, the partnership is coming back to Earth. The Pokémon Center's new collection is dropping ahead of World Space Week, which kicks off on October 4. That date will also see the launch of a new space-themed event in Pokémon GO and interactive “Space and Pokémon” exhibitions in select museums across Europe.
For those of us on the other side of the pond? Well, at least we get merch. The new TCG accessories, led by a binder, deck box, and playmat, all show illustrations of astronaut Pikachu floating alongside Lunatone, Cosmog, and Minior.
Fans can also get their hands on t-shirts and hoodies with the same cosmic Pokémon graphic. The most expensive item in the drop is a full bomber jacket, listed at $129.99, which features individual Pokémon patches and a Poké ball zipper.
The Pokémon franchise is marking its 30th anniversary this year, and there have been plenty of partnerships to celebrate. Here’s TPC’s statement on the ethos behind this particular collaboration:
“The European Space Agency (ESA) is Europe’s gateway to space. Its mission is to shape the development of Europe’s space capability and ensure that investment in space continues to deliver benefits to the citizens of Europe and the world. Together, ESA and Pokémon aim to inspire and delight with endless cosmic possibility!”
While most of the collection is available for purchase now, one "delightful and inspiring" item that still doesn't have a release date is a new figure of Pikachu in his astronaut outfit. Just another thing for fans to look forward to during the long wait for Gen 10.
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