Pokemon Scarlet & Violet: A Guide to Obedience

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 (e.g., 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 limit.

For instance, a level 20 Fletchinder caught with zero badges will obey even after leveling to 21. However, a level 21 Fletchinder caught with zero badges will disobey until a badge is earned.

Disobedient Pokémon will refuse commands, indicated by a blue speech bubble above their icon. In battle, they might refuse to use moves, fall asleep, or inflict self-harm through confusion.

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

Here's the breakdown:

Transferred/Traded Pokémon:

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 level 17 Pokémon traded to you will obey even if leveled beyond 20; a level 21 Pokémon will not obey until you earn a badge.