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Spark vs. Sierra in PGO Holiday Part 1: Optimal Choice

Author:Kristen Update:Jan 09,2025

In Pokémon GO's Holiday Part 1 branching research, trainers face a choice: aid Spark or Sierra. While official announcements omitted details on this free research (available December 17th-22nd, 9:59 AM local time), the decision hinges on preferred Pokémon types and reward encounters.

Choosing Your Path: Spark or Sierra?

The core difference lies in the Pokémon type focus: Ice (Spark) or Fire (Sierra). Both paths offer similar rewards beyond the initial encounter.

Spark's Ice-Type Challenge

Pokémon GO Spark

Image via Niantic

Selecting Spark directs you towards Ice-type Pokémon. Completing Part 2 rewards an Alolan Vulpix encounter.

Part 2:

Task Reward
Catch 10 Ice-Type Pokémon 10 Pinap Berries
Take 5 Snapshots 20 Poké Balls
Complete 5 Field Research 500 Stardust
Complete All Tasks Alolan Vulpix
2000 XP

Part 3:

Task Reward
Catch 25 Ice-Type Pokémon 10 Ultra Balls
Power Up Ice-Type Pokémon 10x 1 Golden Razz Berry
Collect MP from 3 Power Spots 100 Max Particles
Complete All Tasks Sandygast
3000 XP
2000 Stardust

Sierra's Fiery Pursuit

Pokémon GO Rocket Leaders

Image via Niantic

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

Part 2:

Task Reward
Catch 10 Fire-Type Pokémon 10 Pinap Berries
Take 5 Snapshots 20 Poké Balls
Complete 5 Field Research 500 Stardust
Complete All Tasks Shadow Vulpix
2000 XP

Part 3:

Task Reward
Catch 25 Fire-Type Pokémon 10 Ultra Balls
Power Up Fire-Type Pokémon 10x 1 Golden Razz Berry
Collect MP from 3 Power Spots 100 Max Particles
Complete All Tasks Sandygast
3000 XP
2000 Stardust

The Verdict:

The final decision rests on your desired Vulpix variant (Alolan or Shadow) and preferred Pokémon type for catching during the event. Pokémon GO is currently available.