Spark vs. Sierra: Best Choice in Pokemon GO Holiday Part 1 Research

Every *Pokemon GO* player eventually reaches a pivotal moment in the game's branching research paths—where choosing one direction over another can shape your experience. This time, during the *Holiday Part 1* event, Niantic has left players guessing: is it better to team up with Spark or go after Sierra?

Pokemon GO Holiday Part 1 Branching Research Dates

While the official Niantic blog post for the *Holiday Part 1* event highlights Field Research and Paid Timed Research options, it surprisingly omits details about the free event research story. However, rest assured—there *is* a complimentary research path available to all trainers.

This free storyline is titled “Holiday Part 1” and consists of three sections. The event begins on December 17 and concludes on December 22 at 9:59 AM local time. Upon completing the first set of tasks, players will face a choice: assist Team Instinct’s Spark with his Pokemon research or pursue Team GO Rocket’s Sierra. But which option should you pick?

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

As with most branching research choices in *Pokemon GO*, the differences between Spark and Sierra aren’t drastic. Your decision largely depends on which type of Pokemon you prefer catching and which exclusive encounter reward appeals to you. Let’s break down both paths so you can make an informed choice.

Spark Research Tasks & Rewards

If you side with Spark, your second and third research tasks will center around capturing Ice-type Pokemon. Completing the second set of tasks grants you an encounter with the charming Ice-type Alolan Vulpix. Here's what to expect along this route:

Part 2

Part 3

Note that while the specific Pokemon types differ between Spark and Sierra, the final rewards—including the Sandygast encounter—are identical regardless of your choice.

Sierra Research Tasks & Rewards

Opting to track Sierra shifts your focus toward Fire-type Pokemon. You’ll engage in Fire-type captures, and upon finishing Part 2, you'll be rewarded with a Shadow Vulpix encounter. Below are the task details if you follow Sierra’s trail:

Part 2

Part 3

Final Thoughts: Spark vs. Sierra – Which Should You Choose?

Ultimately, your decision comes down to two key factors: whether you’d prefer an Alolan Vulpix or a Shadow Vulpix, and whether you'd rather focus on Fire-type or Ice-type Pokemon throughout the *Holiday Part 1* event. Both paths offer similar