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 from December 17th to December 22nd at 9:59 AM local time, features a free research path with three sections. After completing the initial tasks, you'll choose your allegiance.

Choosing Spark or Sierra: A Comparative Analysis

The core difference lies in the Pokemon types and reward encounters. The choice largely depends on your preferred Pokemon type and desired reward.

Spark's Research: An Ice-Type Focus

Selecting Spark directs your efforts towards Ice-type Pokemon. Completing Part 2 rewards you with an Alolan Vulpix encounter.

Spark - Part 2 Tasks & Rewards

Spark - Part 3 Tasks & Rewards

Sierra's Research: Embracing Fire

Choosing Sierra shifts the focus to Fire-type Pokemon, culminating in a Shadow Vulpix encounter for completing Part 2.

Sierra - Part 2 Tasks & Rewards

Sierra - Part 3 Tasks & Rewards

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

The Verdict: Your decision hinges on your desired Vulpix variant (Alolan or Shadow) and preferred Pokemon type for catching and powering up during the event. Pokemon GO is available now.