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Pokemon GO Holiday Part 1: Experts Weigh Spark vs. Sierra

by Hazel Feb 14,2025

In Pokémon GO's Holiday Part 1 branching research, trainers face a choice: aid Spark or Sierra. This guide clarifies the differences to help you decide. The event, running December 17th – 22nd (9:59 AM local time), features a free research path with three sections. After the first, you'll choose your path.

Pokémon GO Spark

Image via Niantic

Spark's Research: Focuses on Ice-type Pokémon.

Part 2:

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

Part 3:

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: Centers on Fire-type Pokémon.

Pokémon GO Rocket Leaders

Image via Niantic

Part 2:

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

Part 3:

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

The final Sandygast encounter is the same for both paths. Your decision hinges on your preferred Vulpix variant (Alolan or Shadow) and desired Pokémon type focus for catching during the event. Pokémon GO is available now.

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