In Pokemon GO's Holiday Part 1 branching research, trainers face a crucial decision: aid Spark or Sierra? This guide clarifies the choices, helping you optimize your Holiday Part 1 progress. The event, running December 17th to December 22nd at 9:59 AM local time, features a free research path with three sections. After completing the initial tasks, players select their allegiance.
Spark vs. Sierra: A Comparative Analysis
The core difference lies in the Pokemon type focus and reward encounters. The choice isn't drastically impactful, but aligning with your preferred Pokemon type enhances gameplay.
Spark's Research: An Ice-Type Adventure
Choosing Spark directs your efforts towards Ice-type Pokemon. Completing Part 2 rewards an Alolan Vulpix encounter.
Spark - Part 2 Tasks & Rewards
| Research Task | Reward |
|---|---|
| Catch 10 Ice-Type Pokemon | 10 Pinap Berries |
| Take 5 snapshots of different Pokemon | 20 Poke Balls |
| Complete 5 Field Research Tasks | 500 Stardust |
| Complete All Three Tasks | Alolan Vulpix encounter, 2000 XP |
Spark - Part 3 Tasks & Rewards
| Research Task | Reward |
|---|---|
| Catch 25 Ice-Type Pokemon | 10 Ultra Balls |
| Power Up Ice-Type Pokemon 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: The Part 3 rewards (including the Sandygast encounter) remain consistent regardless of the chosen path.
Sierra's Research: A Fiery Challenge
Opting for Sierra focuses your efforts on Fire-type Pokemon, with a Shadow Vulpix encounter awaiting in Part 2.
Sierra - Part 2 Tasks & Rewards
| Research Task | Reward |
|---|---|
| Catch 10 Fire-Type Pokemon | 10 Pinap Berries |
| Take 5 snapshots of different Pokemon | 20 Poke Balls |
| Complete 5 Field Research Tasks | 500 Stardust |
| Complete All Three Tasks | Shadow Vulpix encounter, 2000 XP |
Sierra - Part 3 Tasks & Rewards
| Research Task | Reward |
|---|---|
| Catch 25 Fire-Type Pokemon | 10 Ultra Balls |
| Power Up Fire-Type Pokemon 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 hinges on your desired Vulpix variant and preferred Pokemon type for catching during the event. Choose wisely, Trainer!
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