Pokémon GO Holiday: Spark or Sierra for Part 1 Research?

In every Pokémon GO branching research quest, trainers face a choice. This Holiday Part 1 event presents a decision between aiding Spark or Sierra, with limited guidance on which path aligns best with event goals.

Pokémon GO Holiday Part 1 Branching Research Timing:

The official Niantic announcement for Holiday Part 1 surprisingly omits the free event research, focusing solely on Field Research and the paid Timed Research. However, a free research path is available to all trainers, running from December 17th to December 22nd, 9:59 AM local time.

This "Holiday Part 1" research features three sections. After the initial tasks, players select between assisting Team Instinct's Spark or confronting Team GO Rocket's Sierra. The optimal choice depends on individual preferences.

Spark vs. Sierra: Which Path to Choose?

The differences between these paths are subtle, primarily influencing the Pokémon types encountered and reward encounters.

Spark's Research: Ice-Type Focus

Choosing Spark directs the research towards Ice-type Pokémon. Completing Part 2 rewards an Alolan Vulpix encounter.

Part 2 Tasks & Rewards:

Part 3 Tasks & Rewards:

Note: Part 3 rewards are identical regardless of the chosen path (Spark or Sierra), including the Sandygast encounter.

Sierra's Research: Fire-Type Focus

Selecting Sierra shifts the focus to Fire-type Pokémon, aligning with the fire and ice theme. Part 2 rewards a Shadow Vulpix encounter.

Part 2 Tasks & Rewards:

Part 3 Tasks & Rewards:

The decision hinges on Vulpix preference (Alolan or Shadow) and the desired Pokémon type to catch during Holiday Part 1.

Pokémon GO is currently available.