If you're diving into MLB The Show 26, you're probably familiar with Conquest mode. It's a game mode where you take control of a team and try to dominate a map of MLB teams. While the main objective is to capture territories and complete missions, many players overlook one of the most rewarding aspects of Conquest: hidden reward pathing.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how hidden reward pathing works, how to maximize your rewards, and some strategies to make the most out of Conquest.

What is Hidden Reward Pathing?

Hidden reward pathing refers to the rewards you get in Conquest mode that aren’t directly tied to the main objectives or missions. These rewards typically include stubs, packs, or player cards, and they often require players to complete certain tasks or make specific moves on the map that aren’t immediately obvious. The idea is that by exploring different routes and completing optional objectives, you unlock rewards that might otherwise be missed.

In practice, this means that while you’re busy capturing territories or completing other objectives, there’s more going on in the background. You’ll often find that progressing through the map in different ways can lead to rewards that feel like little “Easter eggs” that help you out.

How Do I Unlock Hidden Rewards?

Hidden rewards can be unlocked in several ways, but there are two main methods to keep in mind: completing specific territories and hitting certain map milestones.

1. Completing Specific Territories

As you move through the Conquest map, you’ll see some territories labeled with icons that hint at a hidden reward. These rewards might be unlocked once you’ve captured certain territories or performed actions in specific zones. Some territories offer bonus stubs or packs when you take them, so it’s worth considering which territories you prioritize.

2. Hitting Map Milestones

In Conquest, you might notice that as you progress, you’re also unlocking different milestones. These can include capturing a certain number of territories, eliminating rival teams, or achieving high levels of control. Often, reaching a milestone will unlock stubs or player packs. The key here is to balance your focus on the main objectives with hitting those hidden milestones for extra rewards.

Where Should I Start Looking for Hidden Rewards?

The first place to look for hidden rewards is the edges of the map. Many players tend to focus on the central territories, but the periphery is where some of the best rewards are hidden. For example, teams located at the edges might offer high-value rewards once you capture them, and territories with low defensive strength can sometimes be left unchecked until later, letting you unlock additional bonuses.

Additionally, it’s worth exploring territories that seem like dead ends or places that don’t fit into your immediate plans. These areas often have hidden reward icons once you capture them or complete associated tasks.

How Do I Use This to My Advantage?

The key to maximizing your hidden reward pathing is to plan out your territory captures with an eye for efficiency. You want to balance completing main objectives with hunting down hidden rewards. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of this:

1. Focus on Control, Not Just Conquest

While it’s tempting to rush through Conquest mode and simply capture as much territory as possible, remember that control matters more. Control of areas gives you the chance to unlock additional rewards over time. Aim to secure areas where you know the rewards are stacked, even if it means spending more time.

2. Work in Phases

Don’t be in a rush to take over the entire map. Instead, break it down into phases. In each phase, focus on a combination of capturing important territories while keeping an eye on the secondary areas that offer rewards. This will allow you to stay on track while still benefiting from the hidden rewards.

3. Vary Your Strategy

Each Conquest run can feel different based on the teams you're facing and the territories available. Adapt your strategy to the map you're playing on. Some areas may require you to win specific games to unlock hidden rewards, while others simply need you to take over a certain territory. If you're not sure which areas are worth prioritizing, try focusing on areas with fewer defensive teams, as they might be easier to unlock for hidden rewards.

Are There Any Specific Rewards to Look Out For?

While the rewards vary from run to run, there are a few types of hidden rewards that you'll likely encounter across the board. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Stubs

One of the most valuable rewards in Conquest mode is stubs. These in-game currency can be used for a variety of purposes, including buying packs, upgrading players, or enhancing your team. The more stubs you earn through hidden rewards, the better your chances are to progress faster in the game.

For instance, you might be looking to buy MLB 26 stubs Nintendo Switch, and discovering hidden reward paths is one way to stockpile the in-game currency to purchase stubs without needing to spend real money.

2. Player Packs

As you uncover hidden reward paths, player packs are often unlocked. These packs can contain a variety of players, including rare ones or those that can be used to strengthen your lineup. Keep an eye on areas of the map where player packs might be hidden, and don’t be afraid to take the time to unlock them.

3. Special Player Cards

Sometimes, hidden rewards go beyond basic packs and stubs. You may find unique player cards, such as legends or signature players, that aren’t available through standard pack openings. These cards can provide a significant boost to your team, especially if you’re targeting specific attributes.

Do I Need to Grind for Hidden Rewards?

Hidden rewards are often tied to specific actions or milestones, but they don’t require an excessive grind. Most of the time, they simply encourage you to explore different territories and capture parts of the map that you might have ignored otherwise. If you’re already completing the main objectives, the hidden rewards will naturally follow as a bonus, but if you’re looking for a more focused approach, it can be worth it to set aside time specifically for finding hidden rewards.

In short, these rewards aren’t necessarily the focus of your Conquest run, but they’re a nice addition that can help you along the way.

Hidden reward pathing in MLB The Show 26’s Conquest mode is a powerful feature for players looking to maximize their rewards without needing to grind excessively. By paying attention to specific territories, milestones, and map nuances, you can uncover additional stubs, player cards, and packs that help enhance your team.

Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer, taking the time to explore the map for hidden rewards is worth it. The extra rewards can speed up your progress and help you level up your team faster. Keep an eye out for those elusive territories and hidden icons – they might just hold the key to your next big upgrade.