In Pokemon GO's Holiday Part 1 branching research, trainers face a crucial decision: assist Spark or Sierra. This guide clarifies the choices, helping you optimize your Holiday Part 1 progress. The event, running from December 17th to December 22nd at 9:59 AM local time, features a free research path with three sections. After the initial tasks, you'll choose your path.
The Spark vs. Sierra Dilemma:
The core difference lies in the Pokémon type focus and reward encounters. The choice isn't drastically impactful, but it influences your catching strategy and desired rewards.
Spark's Ice-Type Focus:
Image via Niantic
Choosing Spark directs you towards Ice-type Pokémon. Completing Part 2 rewards an Alolan Vulpix encounter.
Spark - Part 2 Tasks & Rewards:
Research Task |
Reward |
Catch 10 Ice-Type Pokémon |
10 Pinap Berries |
Take 5 snapshots of different Pokémon |
20 Poké Balls |
Complete 5 Field Research Tasks |
500 Stardust |
Complete All Three Tasks |
Alolan Vulpix & 2000 XP |
Spark - Part 3 Tasks & Rewards:
Research Task |
Reward |
Catch 25 Ice-Type Pokémon |
10 Ultra Balls |
Power Up Ice-Type Pokémon 10 Times |
1 Golden Razz Berry |
Collect MP from 3 Power Spots |
100 Max Particles |
Complete All Three Tasks |
Sandygast, 3000 XP, 2000 Stardust |
Sierra's Fire-Type Focus:
Image via Niantic
Opting for Sierra shifts the focus to Fire-type Pokémon, with a Shadow Vulpix encounter as the Part 2 reward.
Sierra - Part 2 Tasks & Rewards:
Research Task |
Reward |
Catch 10 Fire-Type Pokémon |
10 Pinap Berries |
Take 5 snapshots of different Pokémon |
20 Poké Balls |
Complete 5 Field Research Tasks |
500 Stardust |
Complete All Three Tasks |
Shadow Vulpix & 2000 XP |
Sierra - Part 3 Tasks & Rewards:
Research Task |
Reward |
Catch 25 Fire-Type Pokémon |
10 Ultra Balls |
Power Up Fire-Type Pokémon 10 Times |
1 Golden Razz Berry |
Collect MP from 3 Power Spots |
100 Max Particles |
Complete All Three Tasks |
Sandygast, 3000 XP, 2000 Stardust |
Note that the Part 3 rewards (including the Sandygast encounter) remain consistent regardless of your choice. Your decision hinges on your preferred Vulpix variant and the Pokémon type you wish to prioritize catching during the event. Pokemon GO is currently available for play.