Understanding Pokemon Obedience in Scarlet & Violet: A Comprehensive Guide
Pokemon obedience, a long-standing mechanic, has seen some evolution. Generally, newly caught Pokémon obey commands up to level 20. Beyond that, Gym Badges increase obedience limits. Scarlet & Violet maintain this core principle but introduce a key difference.
Obedience in Gen 9:
Unlike previous generations (like Sword/Shield), obedience in Gen 9 is determined by the Pokémon's level at the time of capture. Pokémon caught at level 20 or below will always obey. Pokémon caught above level 20 will disobey until the first Gym Badge is earned. Importantly, a Pokémon caught within the obedience limit will remain obedient even if it levels up beyond that limit.
For example: A level 20 Fletchinder caught with zero badges will obey even at level 21. However, a level 21 Fletchinder caught with zero badges will disobey until a badge is obtained.
Disobedient Pokémon refuse auto-battle commands (indicated by a blue speech bubble). In battles, they may refuse moves, fall asleep, or self-inflict confusion.
Gym Badges and Obedience Levels:
Your Trainer Card (accessed via the in-game map (Y button) and Profile (X button)) displays your current obedience level. Each Gym Badge increases this level by 5. The order of Gym battles doesn't matter; 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/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 obedience. A level 17 Pokémon traded and then leveled beyond 20 will still obey. A level 21 Pokémon will not.
