In Pokemon GO's Holiday Part 1 branching research, trainers face a crucial decision: assist Spark or Sierra. This guide clarifies the choice, focusing on the rewards and tasks involved. The event, running from December 17th to December 22nd at 9:59 AM local time, presents a free research path with three stages. After completing the initial tasks, players must select their allegiance.
The Spark or Sierra Dilemma
The core difference lies in the Pokémon type focus. The choice primarily hinges on preferred Pokémon and desired encounter rewards.
Choosing Spark: An Ice-Type Adventure
Opting for Spark directs your efforts toward Ice-type Pokémon. Completing the second stage rewards an Alolan Vulpix encounter.
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 |
Spark's Research Tasks & Rewards: 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 that the Part 3 rewards, including the Sandygast encounter, are consistent regardless of your choice.
Choosing Sierra: A Fiery Pursuit
Selecting Sierra focuses your efforts on Fire-type Pokémon, culminating in a Shadow Vulpix encounter in Part 2.
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 |
Sierra's Research Tasks & Rewards: 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 ultimate decision rests on your preference for either the Alolan or Shadow Vulpix and the type of Pokémon you wish to prioritize catching. Pokemon GO is available now.
