The ‘Choose Your Path’ Timed Research quest introduces a fascinating choice for players in Pokémon Go, launching on May 12, 2026. This new feature allows trainers to select between three distinct paths: Explore, Catch, or Battle. Each path caters to different gameplay styles, providing tailored XP bonuses and challenges.
The quest is a test run for a new content type in Pokémon Go. Players must make their choice wisely, as they cannot switch paths once selected. The Explore path rewards players with five times the XP for spinning PokéStops, while the Catch path offers 1.5 times the XP for catching Pokémon with nice throws or better. The Battle path provides an additional 5,000 XP for completing raids.
Key requirements for each path vary significantly:
- The Explore path requires players to explore 5 km and spin 50 PokéStops.
- The Catch path challenges players to make 15 excellent throws and 50 curveball throws.
- The Battle path involves winning five raids and using 25 supereffective charged attacks.
Despite the differences in challenges, rewards remain consistent across all paths—players will receive three Pinap Berries and five Rare Candies upon completion. This consistency may encourage trainers to experiment with different paths during community events.
As one player noted, “If you love raiding, pick battle. If you like going on walks, pick explore. If you catch every Pokémon you see, then pick catch.” The timing around Lechonk Community Day on May 9 strengthens the case further; shiny hunting naturally produces a high volume of throws that will all count toward the bonus.
Observers note that Pokémon Go is treating this as a test—an opportunity to gauge player preferences and engagement with different play styles. The quest runs from Tuesdays at 10 a.m. until the following Monday at 8 p.m., local time. This limited-time offering might just reshape how trainers approach their gameplay strategies.
