Understanding Pokemon Obedience in Scarlet & Violet: A Comprehensive Guide

Pokemon obedience, a long-standing mechanic, has seen some adjustments in Generation 9. While generally following the pattern of obedience up to level 20 for new trainers, increasing with gym badges, Scarlet and Violet introduce a key difference.

Obedience in Gen 9:

Unlike previous games like Sword and Shield, a Pokémon's obedience in Scarlet and 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 the player earns their first gym badge. Crucially, a Pokémon caught within the obedience range will remain obedient even if it levels up beyond the 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 earned.

Disobedient Pokémon will refuse auto-battle commands (indicated by a blue speech bubble), and may refuse commands or act erratically in battles (e.g., falling asleep or self-inflicting confusion).

Obedience Levels and Gym Badges:

Your Pokémon's obedience level is checked via your Trainer Card (accessed by opening the map with the Y button and selecting Profile with the X button). Each gym badge increases the obedience level by 5. The order of gym battles is flexible, but the number of badges directly impacts the obedience level:

Transferred/Traded Pokémon:

Unlike previous generations, the Original Trainer (OT) ID no longer affects obedience in Scarlet and Violet. The level of a traded Pokémon at the time of transfer determines its obedience status. A level 17 Pokémon traded and then leveled beyond 20 will still obey, whereas a level 21 Pokémon will not.