Let's Go Research

Last week, Pokémon Go had probably one of its most significant and important updates so far: the addition of the Research feature, which lets Trainers undertake tasks ("quests") to obtain rewards, which may be in the form of items or even Pokémon. The latter bit is important, as the feature brings back certain Pokémon for capture, as well as for the first time ever, it makes a Mythical Pokémon available, for which the one available now is Mew. The feature itself is a neat addition in many ways.

Research tasks are divided into two kinds: Field and Special. Field tasks are received by way of spinning PokéStops, and these tasks change from day to day and place to place. Regardless, the tasks require completion of certain objectives (like capturing specific Pokémon or battling in Gyms) and once they are met, the rewards can be claimed - they are not too shabby either. Up to three of these may be taken at any time, but many of these may be completed and claimed in a single day. But the real prize is claiming completion of at least one task each day for seven days, which rewards items and a special Pokémon. It becomes another fun and active way to do things.

Special tasks are directly present, and for the purpose of getting to Mew, there are eight tiers of tasks. Each task rewards experience individually and other rewards as a whole, and each tier must be completed to move up to the next one. These tasks are considerably more involved and more difficult than the Field tasks, but the concept is the same: complete objectives, get rewards. Moreover, they have to be as such, considering that Mew is at the end of the road, and that is the incredible thing.

I've made my way through the first seven days of Field Research tasks and obtained Moltres as a result. Moltres is popular as one of the Legendary Pokémon present when raids were first introduced; getting it this way seems as special as a raid, though admittedly it takes time. Meanwhile, there are several stalwart tasks that keep me (and others) from getting to Mew, and this becomes an oft-discussed point within my raid group. A few group members have been able to obtain Mew, though, and that's pretty great. I hope I can follow suit soon.

These Research tasks are certainly fascinating and especially rewarding for all players, veteran and newbie alike. The point of Pokémon Go from the very beginning has been to get players moving, and I'd say this really does the trick while bringing in new challenges and opportunities. It's hard for any Trainer to say no to that, especially with exciting rewards that await. It would certainly keep Trainers on their toes - me included - while they go about their Go business.

One year ago: Caravansary