Guide: Choosing Wisely in Pokémon GO Holiday Part 1 Research

Author: Nova Jan 20,2025

In Pokémon GO's Holiday Part 1 branching research, trainers face a choice: aid Spark or Sierra. This guide clarifies the decision, focusing on reward differences. The event, running December 17th–22nd (9:59 AM local time), features a free research path with three sections. After the initial tasks, players select their path.

Pokémon GO Holiday Part 1: Spark vs. Sierra

The core difference lies in the Pokémon types and reward encounters. The choice hinges on your preferred Pokémon type and desired encounter.

Spark's Research: An Ice-Type Focus

Pokémon GO Spark

Image via Niantic

Choosing Spark directs your focus to Ice-type Pokémon. Part 2 rewards an Alolan Vulpix encounter.

Part 2 Tasks & Rewards

Research Task Reward
Catch 10 Ice-Type Pokémon 10 Pinap Berries
Take 5 snapshots of wild Pokémon 20 Poké Balls
Complete 5 Field Research Tasks 500 Stardust
Complete All Three Tasks Alolan Vulpix encounter, 2000 XP

Part 3 Tasks & Rewards

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

Sierra's Research: A Fiery Path

Pokémon GO Rocket Leaders

Image via Niantic

Selecting Sierra shifts the focus to Fire-type Pokémon. The Part 2 reward is a Shadow Vulpix encounter.

Part 2 Tasks & Rewards

Research Task Reward
Catch 10 Fire-Type Pokémon 10 Pinap Berries
Take 5 snapshots of wild Pokémon 20 Poké Balls
Complete 5 Field Research Tasks 500 Stardust
Complete All Three Tasks Shadow Vulpix encounter, 2000 XP

Part 3 Tasks & Rewards

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

Note that Part 3 rewards remain consistent regardless of your choice. The final decision rests on your preferred Vulpix variant and desired Pokémon type for catching during the event.

Pokémon GO is available now.