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Pokemon GO Fans Divided Over Paid Costume Party Timed Research in Halloween 2024 Event

As Pokemon GO’s Halloween 2024 Part 2 event kicks off, players are expressing mixed feelings about the newly introduced Costume Party Timed Research. The Timed Research, which costs $1.99, offers players rewards that were previously free during past events, raising questions and sparking debate within the community. Running from October 28 to November 3, this event follows Halloween Part 1 and introduces more activities and limited-time rewards for players keen on celebrating Halloween with costumed Pokemon.

While the Max Out season, which highlights Dynamax Pokemon from Sword and Shield, remains in effect until December 3, the ongoing Halloween festivities bring fresh opportunities for Pokemon collectors. Yet, the Costume Party Timed Research stands out as a point of contention. Priced at $1.99, it allows players to fast-track access to Halloween-themed Pokemon like Witch Hat Pikachu and Spooky Festival Vulpix—Pokemon that were once available for free in the 2022 event. Reddit user Shuckleberg and others have voiced concerns about this shift, questioning the rationale behind charging for rewards that were previously free. However, players who choose not to pay will still have chances to encounter these Pokemon through wild encounters, raids, and eggs.

Timed Research has historically offered players higher IV encounter rates with featured Pokemon, but it doesn’t seem to alter Shiny rates. This year, players participating in the Halloween event can look forward to costumed encounters with Rowlet and Froakie—featured Pokemon in this Timed Research that can also be found during Spotlight Hour on October 29. Niantic’s decision to provide a paid shortcut to costumed Pokemon has drawn criticism from those who feel this option might mislead or pressure players into making purchases, diverting from the game’s usual exploration-based approach.

Despite the Costume Party Timed Research’s mixed reception, players still have the option to engage with it for faster event progression. As the Halloween 2024 Part 2 event continues, players are encouraged to claim their rewards before the event wraps up on November 3. Beyond Halloween, fans can look forward to upcoming events, including the Harvest Festival on November 7 and the Wild Area event on November 23, which are anticipated to bring additional Dynamax Pokemon into the Max Out season lineup.

Stay tuned for further updates on Pokemon GO’s seasonal events and more exclusive rewards for dedicated trainers.