In Pokémon GO's Holiday Part 1 branching research, trainers face a crucial decision: aid Spark or Sierra. This guide clarifies the differences to help you choose wisely. The event, running from December 17th to December 22nd at 9:59 AM local time, features a free research path with three sections. After completing the first, you'll select your path.
The Spark vs. Sierra Dilemma
The core difference lies in the Pokémon types you'll focus on and the reward encounter. Both paths offer similar rewards in the final section, but the initial choices diverge significantly.
Spark's Ice-Type Focus
Choosing Spark directs your efforts towards Ice-type Pokémon. Completing Part 2 rewards you with 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 Challenge
Opting for Sierra focuses your efforts on Fire-type Pokémon, culminating in a Shadow Vulpix encounter for completing Part 2.
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 |
The Verdict
Your choice hinges on your desired Vulpix variant (Alolan or Shadow) and preferred Pokémon type for catching and powering up. Pokémon GO is available now.
