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In Pokémon GO's Holiday Part 1 branching research, trainers face a choice: aid Spark or Sierra. This guide clarifies the differences to help you decide. The event, running December 17th-22nd (9:59 AM local time), features a free research path with three parts. After completing the first, you'll choose your path.
Pokémon GO Holiday Part 1 Branching Research:
The official Niantic announcement omitted this free research, focusing on Field Research and paid Timed Research. However, this free path is available to all.
Spark vs. Sierra: Which to Choose?
The core difference lies in the Pokémon types and reward encounters. The final reward (Sandygast) is the same regardless of your choice.
Spark's Research: An Ice-Type Focus
Choosing Spark means focusing on Ice-type Pokémon. Your Part 2 reward is an Alolan Vulpix.
Part 2 Tasks & Rewards:
| 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 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 Fire-Type Focus
Choosing Sierra focuses on Fire-type Pokémon, with a Shadow Vulpix as the Part 2 reward.
Part 2 Tasks & Rewards:
| 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 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 hinges on your preferred Vulpix variant and desired Pokémon type focus for the event. Pokémon GO is available now.
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