Pokémon Guide: Master 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 Level 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. 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 commands even after leveling up to 21. However, a level 21 Fletchinder caught with zero badges will disobey until a badge is obtained.

Disobedient Pokémon will refuse commands, indicated by a blue speech bubble above their icon in the party menu. In battle, they may refuse to use moves, fall asleep, or become confused.

Gym Badges and Obedience Levels

Your Trainer Card shows your Pokémon's obedience level:

Open the map (Y-button).
Access your Profile (X-button).

Each Gym Badge increases the obedience level by 5. The open-world nature of Scarlet & Violet allows for flexible Gym Leader battles. The obedience level is tied to the number of badges, not the specific Gym Leader defeated.

Here's the breakdown:

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: OT Doesn't Matter

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 subsequently leveled beyond 20 will still obey; a level 21 Pokémon will not. The "met level" is the level at the time of acquisition in your game.