Should You Choose Spark or Sierra in the Pokemon GO Holiday Part 1 Research?

The *Pokémon GO* Holiday Part 1 event presents trainers with a branching research path, requiring a choice between aiding Spark or Sierra. While official announcements omitted details on this free research, available December 17th-22nd (9:59 AM local time), it features three sections culminating in a crucial decision.

This Holiday Part 1 research path requires players to choose between assisting Team Instinct's Spark or confronting Team GO Rocket's Sierra. The choice primarily impacts the Pokémon type you'll focus on and your reward encounter.

Related: Best Pokémon GO Holiday Cup Little Edition Teams

Spark or Sierra: Which Path to Choose?

The differences between Spark and Sierra's research paths are subtle, hinging on preferred Pokémon types and reward encounters. Let's analyze each option:

Spark's Research: An Ice-Type Adventure

Choosing Spark focuses your efforts on Ice-type Pokémon. Completing Part 2 rewards an Alolan Vulpix encounter.

Part 2

Part 3

Note that Part 3 rewards, including the Sandygast encounter, remain consistent regardless of your choice between Spark and Sierra.

Sierra's Research: A Fiery Challenge

Selecting Sierra shifts the focus to Fire-type Pokémon, with a Shadow Vulpix encounter awaiting in Part 2.

Part 2

Part 3

Your decision hinges on your desired Vulpix encounter (Alolan or Shadow) and preferred Pokémon type to focus on during the Holiday Part 1 event.

Pokémon GO is available now.