Pokemon Scarlet & Violet: A Guide to Obedience

Understanding Pokemon Obedience in Scarlet & Violet: A Comprehensive Guide

Pokemon obedience has evolved throughout the series. While generally, Pokémon obey up to level 20, gym badges increase this limit. Scarlet & Violet maintain this core mechanic, but with a key difference: obedience is tied to the Pokémon's level at the time of capture.

How Obedience Works in Gen 9

Unlike previous generations (like Sword/Shield), a Pokémon's obedience in Scarlet & Violet is determined by its level when caught. Pokémon caught at level 20 or below will always obey. Pokémon caught above level 20 will disobey until you earn gym badges. Crucially, a Pokémon caught within the obedience range will remain obedient even if it levels up beyond that initial limit.

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 only obey after obtaining your first badge.

Disobedient Pokémon will refuse commands, indicated by a blue speech bubble. In battle, this can manifest as refusal to use moves, self-inflicted damage, or falling asleep.

Obedience Levels and Gym Badges

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. The order in which you challenge Gym Leaders doesn't matter; defeating a Gym Leader grants the level increase.

Here's the breakdown:

Transferred or Traded Pokemon Obedience

Unlike previous generations, the Original Trainer (OT) ID no longer affects obedience in Scarlet & Violet. A traded Pokémon's obedience is determined by its level at the time of transfer. A level 17 Pokémon traded and subsequently leveled beyond 20 will still obey. However, a level 21 Pokémon received via trade will be disobedient until the appropriate badge is earned.