In Pokemon GO's Holiday Part 1 branching research, trainers face a choice: aid Spark or Sierra. While Niantic's official announcement omits this free research, running December 17-22 (9:59 AM local time), the decision impacts which Pokémon you'll encounter and focus on.

Choosing Your Path: Spark or Sierra?

The core difference lies in Pokémon type: Ice (Spark) or Fire (Sierra). The reward encounters are also distinct. Both paths ultimately lead to a Sandygast encounter, but the earlier rewards differ significantly.

Spark's Ice-Type Challenge:

Image via Niantic

This path focuses on Ice-type Pokémon. Completing Part 2 rewards an Alolan Vulpix encounter.

Part 2:

Part 3:

Sierra's Fire-Type Pursuit:

Image via Niantic

This path emphasizes Fire-type Pokémon, rewarding a Shadow Vulpix encounter in Part 2. Part 3 rewards remain consistent with Spark's path (Sandygast).

Part 2:

Part 3: (Same as Spark's Part 3)

Your decision hinges on your desired Vulpix variant and preferred Pokémon type for catching throughout the event. Pokemon GO is available now.