Pokémon Scarlet & Violet: Mastering Obedience

Understanding Pokemon Obedience in Scarlet & Violet: A Comprehensive Guide

Pokemon obedience, a long-standing mechanic, has undergone some refinements in Generation 9. While generally similar to previous generations (Pokemon below level 20 typically obey), Scarlet & Violet introduce a key difference: obedience is tied to the Pokemon's level at the time of capture.

How Obedience Works in Gen 9

Unlike in Sword/Shield, a Pokemon's obedience in Scarlet & Violet is determined by its level when caught. Pokemon caught at level 20 or below will always obey. However, a Pokemon caught above level 20 will disobey until you earn your first Gym Badge. Crucially, a Pokemon caught within the obedience range will remain obedient even if it levels up beyond that initial threshold.

For instance, a level 20 Fletchinder caught with zero badges will obey even after leveling up to 21. Conversely, a level 21 Fletchinder caught with zero badges will disobey until a badge is earned.

Disobedience manifests as a blue speech bubble above the Pokemon's icon (in the party screen) and refusal to follow commands during auto-battles or in-battle. A disobedient Pokemon might even unintentionally hurt itself (through moves like Sleep or Confusion).

Obedience Levels and Gym Badges

Your Pokemon's obedience level is visible on your Trainer Card (accessed via the map (Y button) and then Profile (X button)). Each Gym Badge increases the obedience level by 5. The order in which you challenge Gym Leaders doesn't matter; earning a badge raises the obedience level regardless.

Here's the obedience level per badge:

Transferred/Traded Pokemon Obedience

Unlike previous generations, the Original Trainer (OT) ID no longer affects obedience in Scarlet & Violet. The Pokemon's level at the time of transfer or trade determines its obedience. A level 17 Pokemon traded to you will obey even if leveled beyond 20, but a level 21 Pokemon will not obey until you earn enough badges.