Guide to Pokémon Obedience in Scarlet & Violet

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: A Catching Matter

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 commands. Pokémon caught above level 20 will disobey until you earn your first Gym Badge. Importantly, 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 commands even after leveling up to 21. However, a level 21 Fletchinder caught with zero badges will only obey after you acquire your first badge.

Disobedience manifests as a blue speech bubble above the Pokémon's icon (during auto-battles) or refusal to use moves (in battles). In some cases, a disobedient Pokémon might even self-inflict status conditions like sleep or confusion.

Gym Badges and Obedience Levels

Your Pokémon's obedience level is directly tied to the number of Gym Badges you possess. You can view your current obedience level on your Trainer Card (accessed via the map (Y button) and then Profile (X button)). Each badge increases the obedience level by 5.

• 0 Badges: Pokémon caught at level 20 or below obey.
• 1 Badge: Pokémon caught at level 25 or below obey.
• 2 Badges: Pokémon caught at level 30 or below obey.
• 3 Badges: Pokémon caught at level 35 or below obey.
• 4 Badges: Pokémon caught at level 40 or below obey.
• 5 Badges: Pokémon caught at level 45 or below obey.
• 6 Badges: Pokémon caught at level 50 or below obey.
• 7 Badges: Pokémon caught at level 55 or below obey.
• 8 Badges: All Pokémon obey, regardless of level.

The order in which you challenge Gym Leaders is irrelevant; each badge earned increases the obedience threshold.

Transferred/Traded Pokemon: OT Doesn't Matter

Unlike previous games, 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 obedience. A traded level 17 Pokémon will obey even after leveling past 20, while a traded level 21 Pokémon will not obey until the appropriate number of badges are earned.