In Pokemon GO's Holiday Part 1 branching research, trainers face a crucial decision: aid Spark or Sierra. Niantic's official announcement omits this free research, focusing solely on Field Research and paid Timed Research. However, this free event, running December 17th–22nd (9:59 AM local time), presents a three-part research path. After the initial tasks, players must choose their allegiance.
The Spark vs. Sierra Dilemma
The core difference lies in the Pokemon type focus. The choice boils down to preferred Pokemon and desired reward encounter.
Spark's Ice-Type Adventure
Choosing Spark directs your efforts towards Ice-type Pokemon. The Part 2 reward is an Alolan Vulpix encounter.
Spark - Part 2 Tasks & Rewards
| Research Task | Reward |
|---|---|
| Catch 10 Ice-Type Pokemon | 10 Pinap Berries |
| Take 5 snapshots of wild Pokemon | 20 Poke 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 Pokemon | 10 Ultra Balls |
| Power Up Ice-Type Pokemon 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: Part 3 rewards (including the Sandygast encounter) are identical regardless of your choice.
Sierra's Fiery Pursuit
Selecting Sierra shifts the focus to Fire-type Pokemon, with a Shadow Vulpix encounter awaiting in Part 2.
Sierra - Part 2 Tasks & Rewards
| Research Task | Reward |
|---|---|
| Catch 10 Fire-Type Pokemon | 10 Pinap Berries |
| Take 5 snapshots of wild Pokemon | 20 Poke 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 Pokemon | 10 Ultra Balls |
| Power Up Fire-Type Pokemon 10 Times | 1 Golden Razz Berry |
| Collect MP from 3 Power Spots | 100 Max Particles |
| Complete All Three Tasks | Sandygast, 3000 XP, 2000 Stardust |
Your decision hinges on your desired Vulpix variant and preferred Pokemon type for catching during the event. Pokemon GO is currently available.
