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 you earn a badge.
Disobedience manifests as a blue speech bubble above the Pokémon's icon (in the party menu) and refusal to obey commands during auto-battles or in-battle. They may even perform actions like self-inflicted damage or falling asleep.
Gym Badges and Obedience Levels:
Your Trainer Card (accessible via the map (Y button) and Profile (X button)) shows your current obedience level. Each Gym Badge increases this level by 5, impacting which Pokémon will obey:
| Badge No. | Obedience Level |
|---|---|
| 1 | Level 25 or lower |
| 2 | Level 30 or lower |
| 3 | Level 35 or lower |
| 4 | Level 40 or lower |
| 5 | Level 45 or lower |
| 6 | Level 50 or lower |
| 7 | Level 55 or lower |
| 8 | All levels |
The obedience level is tied to the number of badges, not the specific Gym Leader defeated.
Transferred/Traded Pokémon:
The Original Trainer (OT) ID no longer affects obedience in Scarlet & Violet. The level of a transferred or traded Pokémon at the time of transfer/trade determines its obedience. A level 17 Pokémon traded to you will obey even if it levels beyond 20, while a level 21 Pokémon will disobey until you acquire the appropriate badges.
