Pokémon GO is constantly evolving, and one of the most exciting ways to engage with the game is through Timed Research. Unlike Special Research, which stays in your task list until completed, Timed Research has a strict deadline. If you don’t finish the tasks before the timer runs out, the rewards vanish forever! This week, trainers are diving into the brand-new “Choose Your Path” Timed Research, and it’s the perfect time to optimize your gameplay.
What is the “Choose Your Path” Timed Research?
Running from May 5 to May 12, 2026, this unique event allows players to tailor their experience based on their preferred playstyle. After an initial introductory task, you are presented with three distinct branches: Explore, Catch, or Battle.
Choosing the right path is crucial because each one offers a unique weekly bonus that can significantly boost your progress.
The Three Paths Explained
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The Explore Path: If you love hitting the pavement, this is for you. Choosing this path grants a massive 5x XP bonus for spinning PokéStops. To complete it, you’ll need to trek 5 km and spin 50 stops.
- Pro Tip: Since you’ll be on your feet for hours, make sure you have a reliable Anker+Power+Core to keep your phone charged while GPS tracking. High-quality footwear like Brooks+Ghost+15 is also a lifesaver for those long urban hikes.
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The Catch Path: For the trainers who pride themselves on their throwing technique, the Catch path offers a 1.5x XP bonus for Nice Throws or better. You’ll be tasked with hitting 15 Excellent Throws and 50 Curveball Throws.
- Pro Tip: To maximize your efficiency, the Pokemon+GO+Plus+Plus is an essential tool. It can auto-spin stops and catch Pokémon while you focus on landing those perfect manual Excellent Throws for the research.
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The Battle Path: If the competitive side of Pokémon GO is your passion, the Battle path rewards you with +5,000 XP for every Raid completed. You’ll need to win 5 Raids and use 25 Super Effective Charged Attacks.
- Pro Tip: Raiding can be intensive on your device’s battery and temperature. A portable Power+Bank+20000mAh ensures you won’t disconnect in the middle of a legendary encounter.
Why Timed Research Matters
Timed Research events like this are designed to keep the game fresh between major seasonal updates. They offer high-value rewards like Rare Candy, Ultra Balls, and significant XP drops that help you level up faster and power up your strongest Pokémon.
With the Lechonk Community Day coming up on May 9th and the Spring Marathon starting on May 12th, completing this Timed Research early will clear your plate for even more rewards.
Staying Prepared on the Go
Whether you’re exploring a local park or sprinting to a nearby raid, staying hydrated is just as important as your catch rate. Keeping a durable Nalgene+Water+Bottle in your bag is a simple way to stay in the game longer.
If you prefer to play while cycling between PokéStops, a secure Phone+Mount+Bike allows you to keep an eye on your “Choose Your Path” progress safely without needing to hold your phone constantly.
Final Thoughts
The “Choose Your Path” event is a fantastic example of how Pokémon GO rewards different styles of play. Whether you’re an urban explorer, a master catcher, or a raid veteran, there is a strategy and a path for you. Just remember: the clock is ticking! You have until May 12 at 8:00 PM local time to claim your rewards.
Good luck out there, Trainers! May your throws be Excellent and your Shinies be plentiful.