The Legendary Heroes Timed Research is an exciting and multi-faceted challenge embedded within the ongoing Legendary Heroes event in Pokémon Go. During this event, players are presented with a significant choice: to embark on either the Sword or Shield path. This selection plays a crucial role in determining the type of rewards, Collection Challenges, and Incense encounters players will experience. Therefore, it’s advisable to contemplate which path best suits your gameplay style before diving into the quest.
Understanding the Quest Structure
The Legendary Heroes Timed Research quest is active until 8 PM local time on October 1st, making it imperative to complete it within this timeframe to reap all the benefits it offers. The quest structure is designed so that players must choose between the Sword and Shield options, a nod to the titles of the Nintendo Switch games from the eighth generation.
Once a decision is made, it cannot be altered, underscoring the importance of taking the time to assess which path aligns with your gaming needs. To facilitate your decision-making process, we have outlined the quest steps and rewards associated with each path below.
Quest Steps Before Path Selection
The initial phase of the Legendary Heroes Timed Research includes a few steps that players can complete before making their path decision. It’s noteworthy to mention that spoilers lie ahead!
Step 1:
- Catch 8 Pokémon → Encounter with Skwovet
Rewards:
- 800 XP, 800 Stardust, and 8 Poké Balls
Choosing the Sword Path
For players opting for the Sword path, the specified challenges and rewards are as follows:
Step 2:
- Use 8 Berries to catch Pokémon → 1 Incense
- Power up 8 Pokémon → Encounter with Koffing
- Catch 8 Pokémon → 8 Great Balls
Rewards:
- 800 XP, 800 Stardust, and a Galarian Darumaka encounter.
Step 3:
- Explore 3 km → 8 Razz Berries
- Use an Incense → Encounter with Deino
- Catch 8 Pokémon → 8 Ultra Balls
Rewards:
- 800 XP, 800 Stardust, and a Rufflet encounter.
Choosing the Shield Path
On the other hand, those who select the Shield path will encounter different challenges and rewards:
Step 2:
- Use 8 Berries to catch Pokémon → 1 Incense
- Power up 8 Pokémon → Encounter with Koffing
- Catch 8 Pokémon → 8 Great Balls
Rewards:
- 800 XP, 800 Stardust, and a Galarian Ponyta encounter.
Step 3:
- Explore 3 km → 8 Razz Berries
- Use an Incense → Encounter with Larvitar
- Catch 8 Pokémon → 8 Ultra Balls
Rewards:
- 800 XP, 800 Stardust, and a Vullaby encounter.
Selecting the Ideal Path: Sword vs. Shield
Ultimately, the selection between the Sword or Shield path for the Legendary Heroes Timed Research hinges on personal preferences and requirements. The encounters that result from each path differ significantly. In choosing Sword, you’ll have the opportunity to catch Galarian Darumaka and Rufflet, while opting for Shield grants you Galarian Ponyta and Vullaby. If there are specific Pokémon you lack in your Pokédex, considering which path will facilitate their acquisition may affect your choice.
For those who already possess all four Pokémon, consider how you intend to use them in battles, particularly in the Go Battle League. Galarian Darumaka stands out since it can evolve into Galarian Darmanitan, an impressive Ice-type that performs well in five-star raids.
Moreover, it’s worthwhile to examine the impacts of your path choice beyond immediate rewards. Each selection unlocks distinct Collection Challenges and Incense encounters. For instance, in terms of Dragon-type Pokémon, choosing Sword will yield Deino, while Shield will provide Larvitar. Although both evolve into powerful forms, Tyranitar, which can come from Larvitar, offers more versatility.
If you have friends also engaged in Pokémon Go, you might wish to select the opposite path. This allows both players to complete their respective challenges through trading required Pokémon.
As for my personal decision, I’m inclined to choose the Sword path. Having a strong team of Tyranitars, I find the chance to add a robust Hydreigon more appealing. Additionally, it aligns with my tradition of matching my mainline Pokémon series choices with my Pokémon Go selections.
Embark on the Legendary Heroes Timed Research quest and may you achieve all your desired goals!