Pokemon Scarlet & Violet: A Guide to Obedience

Understanding Pokemon Obedience in Scarlet & Violet: A Comprehensive Guide

Pokemon obedience has evolved throughout the series, and Pokemon Scarlet & Violet introduces some key changes. This guide clarifies how obedience works in Gen 9.

Obedience in Gen 9: Catch Level Matters

Unlike previous generations, a Pokemon's obedience in Scarlet & Violet is determined by its level at the time of capture. Pokemon caught at level 20 or below will always obey commands. 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 commands even after leveling up to 21. However, a level 21 Fletchinder caught with zero badges will disobey until a badge is earned.

Disobedient Pokemon will refuse auto-battle commands (indicated by a blue speech bubble), and may refuse commands or act erratically (sleeping, self-inflicting confusion) during battles.

Gym Badges and Obedience Levels

Your Trainer Card (accessed via the map (Y button) and Profile (X button)) shows your current obedience level. Each Gym Badge increases this level by 5, impacting the maximum level a Pokemon can be while still obeying commands.

• 0 Badges: Level 20 or below
• 1 Badge: Level 25 or below
• 2 Badges: Level 30 or below
• 3 Badges: Level 35 or below
• 4 Badges: Level 40 or below
• 5 Badges: Level 45 or below
• 6 Badges: Level 50 or below
• 7 Badges: Level 55 or below
• 8 Badges: All Pokemon obey.

The order in which you defeat Gym Leaders is irrelevant; each badge grants the same obedience level increase.

Transferred or Traded Pokemon: OT Doesn't Matter

Unlike previous games, the Original Trainer (OT) ID no longer affects obedience in Scarlet & Violet. A traded Pokemon's obedience is determined by its level at the time of transfer. A level 17 Pokemon traded and subsequently leveled beyond 20 will still obey, while a level 21 Pokemon will not until the appropriate number of badges are earned.