In every Pokémon GO branching research quest, trainers face a crucial decision. This Holiday Part 1 event presents a choice between assisting Spark or Sierra, with limited guidance on which path aligns best with event goals.
Pokémon GO Holiday Part 1 Branching Research Timing
Surprisingly, Niantic's official announcement omits the free event research, focusing solely on Field Research and the paid Timed Research. However, a free research path, "Holiday Part 1," runs from December 17th to December 22nd, 9:59 AM local time, comprising three stages. After the initial tasks, players must choose between aiding Team Instinct's Spark or confronting Team GO Rocket's Sierra. Which path should you select?
Choosing Spark or Sierra in Pokémon GO Holiday Part 1
The differences between these paths are subtle. Your decision hinges on your preferred Pokémon type and desired reward encounter. Let's analyze each option.
| 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 |
| 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 Part 3 rewards remain consistent regardless of your choice.
| 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 |
| 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 rests on your desired Vulpix variant and preferred Pokémon type to focus on during the Holiday Part 1 event.
Pokémon GO is currently available.
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