In Pokémon 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 gameplay. The event runs from December 17th to December 22nd at 9:59 AM local time. While the official Niantic announcement omits the free research, it's a core part of the Holiday Part 1 event.
Choosing Your Path: Spark or Sierra?
The core difference lies in the Pokémon types and reward encounters. The choice isn't drastically impactful, but it influences your focus.
Spark's Ice-Type Adventure
Selecting Spark directs your efforts towards Ice-type Pokémon.
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 Tasks | Alolan Vulpix Encounter, 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 Tasks | Sandygast Encounter, 3000 XP, 2000 Stardust |
Sierra's Fiery Challenge
Choosing Sierra focuses your efforts on Fire-type Pokémon.
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 Tasks | Shadow Vulpix Encounter, 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 Tasks | Sandygast Encounter, 3000 XP, 2000 Stardust |
Note that the Part 3 rewards, including the Sandygast encounter, are identical regardless of your choice.
The Verdict:
Your decision hinges on your preferred Vulpix (Alolan or Shadow) and the Pokémon type you wish to prioritize catching during the Holiday Part 1 event. Pokémon GO is available now.
