In every Pokémon GO branching research path, a choice must be made. This time, the game offers little guidance on whether assisting Spark or Sierra best aligns with Holiday Part 1 objectives.
Pokémon GO Holiday Part 1 Branching Research Dates
Surprisingly, Niantic's official announcement omits the free event research, mentioning only Field Research and the paid Timed Research. However, a free research path is available to all trainers, running from December 17th to December 22nd at 9:59 AM local time.
This "Holiday Part 1" research features three sections. After completing the first, players choose between aiding Team Instinct's Spark or pursuing Team GO Rocket's Sierra. Which path should you select?
Related: Optimal Pokémon GO Holiday Cup Little Edition Teams
Spark or Sierra in Pokémon GO Holiday Part 1 Event Research?
The differences between the choices are subtle. Your decision hinges on preferred Pokémon types and reward encounters. Let's compare Spark and Sierra to aid your decision.
Spark's Research Tasks & Rewards
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 |
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 |
Note: Part 3 Pokémon types and power-up tasks vary depending on your choice (Spark or Sierra), but rewards remain consistent, including the Sandygast encounter.
Sierra's Research Tasks & Rewards
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 |
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 |
Your decision ultimately depends on your preferred Vulpix encounter and desired Pokémon type focus during the Holiday Part 1 event.
Pokémon GO is currently available.
