Understanding Pokemon Obedience in Scarlet & Violet: A Comprehensive Guide
Pokemon obedience has evolved throughout the series, and Scarlet & Violet introduce some key changes. This guide clarifies how obedience works in Gen 9.
Obedience in Gen 9:
Unlike previous generations (like Sword & Shield), a Pokémon's obedience in Scarlet & Violet is determined by its level at the time of capture. Pokémon caught at level 20 or below will always obey. Pokémon caught above level 20 will disobey until you earn your first Gym Badge. Crucially, a Pokémon 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. However, a level 21 Fletchinder caught with zero badges will disobey until a badge is earned.
Disobedient Pokémon will refuse commands, indicated by a blue speech bubble above their icon. In battle, they might refuse moves, fall asleep, or inflict self-harm through confusion.
Obedience Levels and Gym Badges:
Your Trainer Card (accessed via the map (Y button) and Profile (X button)) displays your current obedience level. Each Gym Badge increases this level by 5. The obedience level determines the maximum level a Pokémon can reach while still obeying commands. The order in which you defeat Gym Leaders is irrelevant; each badge grants the same obedience increase.
| Badge No. | Obedience Level |
|---|---|
| 1 | Pokémon caught at level 25 or lower will obey. |
| 2 | Pokémon caught at level 30 or lower will obey. |
| 3 | Pokémon caught at level 35 or lower will obey. |
| 4 | Pokémon caught at level 40 or lower will obey. |
| 5 | Pokémon caught at level 45 or lower will obey. |
| 6 | Pokémon caught at level 50 or lower will obey. |
| 7 | Pokémon caught at level 55 or lower will obey. |
| 8 | All Pokémon will obey regardless of level. |
Transferred or Traded Pokémon:
Unlike previous generations, the Original Trainer (OT) ID no longer affects obedience in Scarlet & Violet. The Pokémon's level at the time of transfer or trade determines its "met level" for obedience purposes. A level 17 Pokémon traded to you will obey even if leveled beyond 20, but a level 21 Pokémon will not obey until you earn a badge.
