The Pokémon Go Fest 2025 is shaping up to be an intriguing event for fans, with new gameplay mechanics and rewards that are sure to entice trainers worldwide. For just $14.99, ticket holders will gain access to the unique “A Hero’s Journey” Special Research quest. This quest offers players the chance to earn valuable resources aimed at powering up one of the two Legendary Pokémon: Zacian and Zamazenta. Both creatures have their own unique abilities and appeal, making the choice all the more significant for players wanting to optimize their gameplay.
Understanding the “A Hero’s Journey” Special Research
The quest will only be available between June 28 and 29, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in local time. Players must not only purchase the ticket but also log in during this window to begin the Special Research. Once initiated, participants can complete the quest at their own pace, although it is recommended to play during the event to take full advantage of bonuses that can facilitate the quest’s completion.
This Special Research consists of six stages, each requiring players to complete specific tasks to earn rewards. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the steps:
Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Quest
-
Step 1 of 6
- Power up Pokémon 10 times (1 Fast TM)
- Use a Fast TM (1 Charged TM)
- Use a Charged TM (3 Potions)
Rewards: 2,025 Stardust, 3 Super Potions, 2,025 XP
-
Step 2 of 6
- Make 5 nice throws (5 Zacian/Zamazenta Candy)
- Power up fairy-/fighting-type moves five times (1,000 Stardust)
- Earn 5,000 Stardust (3 Pinap Berries)
Rewards: 2 Premium Battle Passes, Frigibax encounter, 3 Silver Pinap Berries
-
Step 3 of 6
- Catch 3 steel-type Pokémon (3 Hyper Potions)
- Battle in 2 raids (3 Max Revives)
- Earn 10,000 XP (1,000 Stardust)
Rewards: 25 Zacian/Zamazenta Candy, 5 Zacian/Zamazenta Candy XL, 2 Premium Battle Passes
-
Step 4 of 6
- Win 2 raids (3 Rare Candy)
- Power up steel-type Pokémon 10 times (3 Max Potions)
- Use 5 super effective charged attacks (3 Razz Berries)
Rewards: 500 Crowned Sword/Shield Energy, Skiddo encounter, 1 Max Mushroom
-
Step 5 of 6
- Earn 2 candies exploring with a fairy-/fighting-type Pokémon (500 Crowned Sword/Shield Energy)
- Change Zacian/Zamazenta’s form (1 Max Particle Pack)
- Win 2 Max Battles (1,000 Stardust)
Rewards: 2,025 Stardust, 5 Zacian/Zamazenta Stickers, 2,025 XP
-
Step 6 of 6
- Claim reward! (2,025 XP)
- Claim reward! (2,025 Stardust)
- Claim reward! (2,025 XP)
Rewards: 5 Zacian/Zamazenta Candy XL, Go Fest 2025 pose, 25 Zacian/Zamazenta Candy
These detailed stages ensure that trainers not only have a structured experience but also a rewarding one. The choice between the two Legendary Pokémon, Zacian and Zamazenta, is a major aspect of the quest. Players will have to make a decision based on their gameplay preferences and strategies.
Choosing Between Zacian and Zamazenta
The choice between Zacian and Zamazenta is a pivotal moment in the quest, but rest assured, choosing one does not block access to the other. Players can still raid and catch either Pokémon after selecting their preference. The primary difference lies in the rewards; selecting Zacian will yield Zacian Candy and Crowned Sword Energy, while Zamazenta will give Zamazenta Candy and Crowned Shield Energy.
From a competitive perspective, PvPoke ranks Zacian as the top contender in Master League PvP, while Zamazenta follows closely in second place. According to the Pokémon Go Database, Zacian ranks as the #7 best raid attacker, while Zamazenta sits at #14. For players interested in maximizing their performance, these rankings could serve as key factors when making a choice.
Each Pokémon also has its own unique Adventure Effect, which can provide boosts during raids and Max Battles. Zacian’s “Behemoth Blade” strengthens attacks, while Zamazenta’s “Behemoth Bash” enhances defensive capabilities.
This adds yet another layer of strategy to the decision-making process. While Zacian tends to be the more versatile option, Zamazenta may appeal to players with a preference for defensive tactics. Ultimately, trainers should choose the Pokémon that resonates with them most—be it out of nostalgia, aesthetics, or gameplay strategy.
Market Impact and Community Response
Niantic, the developers behind Pokémon Go, continue to push the envelope with events like Go Fest 2025. The $14.99 ticket price has sparked discussions in gaming communities about value and accessibility. While some fans see the price as reasonable given the potential rewards, others critique the trend of monetizing events in a game traditionally rooted in exploration and adventure.
Community forums and social media platforms are abuzz with speculation about the implications of this pricing strategy. How does it affect player engagement? Will it create a divide between those who can afford the added costs and those who cannot? These questions are central to discussions among players, as many are eager to see how such events will shape the future of Pokémon Go.
In summary, the “A Hero’s Journey” quest at Pokémon Go Fest 2025 offers an appealing opportunity for trainers to dive deeper into the Pokémon universe, but it also raises important questions about the game’s evolving monetization strategies. Whether players choose Zacian or Zamazenta, the experience promises to add excitement to what has become a beloved annual event.