Should You Choose Spark or Sierra in the Pokemon GO Holiday Part 1 Research?

In Pokémon GO's Holiday Part 1 branching research, trainers face a choice: aid Spark or Sierra. While Niantic's official announcement omits this free research, available December 17-22 (9:59 AM local time), it's a key part of the event's three-section research. After completing the initial tasks, players must decide which path to follow.

Choosing Spark or Sierra: A Matter of Type

The core difference lies in the Pokémon type focus: Ice (Spark) or Fire (Sierra). The reward encounters also vary. Let's examine the specifics.

Spark's Ice-Type Challenge

Choosing Spark directs you towards Ice-type Pokémon. The reward for completing Part 2 is an Alolan Vulpix encounter.

Spark - Part 2

Spark - Part 3

Note: Part 3 rewards (including the Sandygast encounter) are identical regardless of your choice.

Sierra's Fiery Pursuit

Opting for Sierra focuses your efforts on Fire-type Pokémon, culminating in a Shadow Vulpix encounter in Part 2.

Sierra - Part 2

Sierra - Part 3

Your decision hinges on your preferred Vulpix variant and the type of Pokémon you wish to prioritize catching. Pokémon GO is available now.