In Pokémon GO's Holiday Part 1 branching research, trainers face a crucial decision: assist Spark or Sierra. This guide clarifies the choices and helps you decide which path best aligns with your goals. The event, running from December 17th to December 22nd at 9:59 AM local time, offers a free research path with three sections. After the initial tasks, you must choose your allegiance.
The Spark vs. Sierra Dilemma
The core difference lies in the Pokémon types: Spark's path focuses on Ice-types, while Sierra's centers on Fire-types. The final reward encounter (Sandygast) remains consistent regardless of your choice. However, the Part 2 reward encounter differs significantly.
Spark's Research: An Ice-Type Adventure

Choosing Spark leads to Ice-type focused tasks. Your reward for completing Part 2 is an Alolan Vulpix encounter.
Part 2 Tasks & Rewards:
| Research Task | Reward |
|---|---|
| Catch 10 Ice-Type Pokémon | 10 Pinap Berries |
| Take 5 snapshots of wild Pokémon | 20 Poké Balls |
| Complete 5 Field Research Tasks | 500 Stardust |
| Complete All Three Tasks | Alolan Vulpix 2000 XP |
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 Encounter 3000 XP 2000 Stardust |
Sierra's Research: A Fiery Pursuit

Selecting Sierra shifts the focus to Fire-type Pokémon. The Part 2 reward is a Shadow Vulpix encounter.
Part 2 Tasks & Rewards:
| Research Task | Reward |
|---|---|
| Catch 10 Fire-Type Pokémon | 10 Pinap Berries |
| Take 5 snapshots of wild Pokémon | 20 Poké Balls |
| Complete 5 Field Research Tasks | 500 Stardust |
| Complete All Three Tasks | Shadow Vulpix 2000 XP |
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 Encounter 3000 XP 2000 Stardust |
Your Decision:
The optimal choice depends on your desired Vulpix variant (Alolan or Shadow) and the Pokémon type you prefer to catch during the event. Pokémon GO is available now.
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