In Pokémon GO's Holiday Part 1 branching research, trainers face a choice: aid Spark or Sierra. This guide clarifies the decision, focusing on reward encounters and Pokémon types. The event, running December 17th to December 22nd at 9:59 AM local time, features a free research path with three sections. After the first, players choose their allegiance.
Choosing Your Path: Spark or Sierra?
The core difference lies in the Pokémon type focus and reward encounter. The choice isn't drastically impactful, but it influences your catching strategy and the Pokémon you'll receive.
Spark's Ice-Type Challenge
Choosing Spark directs you towards Ice-type Pokémon. Completing Part 2 rewards an Alolan Vulpix encounter.
Spark's Part 2:
| Research Task | Reward |
|---|---|
| Catch 10 Ice-Type Pokémon | 10 Pinap Berries |
| Take 5 snapshots of different wild Pokémon | 20 Poké Balls |
| Complete 5 Field Research Tasks | 500 Stardust |
| Complete All Three Tasks | Alolan Vulpix encounter, 2000 XP |
Spark's Part 3:
| 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 encounter, 3000 XP, 2000 Stardust |
Sierra's Fiery Pursuit
Selecting Sierra focuses your efforts on Fire-type Pokémon, culminating in a Shadow Vulpix encounter in Part 2.
Sierra's Part 2:
| Research Task | Reward |
|---|---|
| Catch 10 Fire-Type Pokémon | 10 Pinap Berries |
| Take 5 snapshots of different wild Pokémon | 20 Poké Balls |
| Complete 5 Field Research Tasks | 500 Stardust |
| Complete All Three Tasks | Shadow Vulpix encounter, 2000 XP |
Sierra's Part 3:
| 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 encounter, 3000 XP, 2000 Stardust |
The Final Verdict:
The decision hinges on your preferred Vulpix variant (Alolan or Shadow) and your desired Pokémon type focus for catching during the Holiday Part 1 event. Pokémon GO is available now.
