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 (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. 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 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 commands, indicated by a blue speech bubble above their icon. In battle, they might refuse moves, fall asleep, or self-inflict confusion.
Gym Badges and Obedience Levels:
Your Trainer Card (accessed via the map (Y-button) and Profile (X-button)) displays your Pokémon's obedience level. Each Gym Badge increases this level by 5. The order in which you challenge Gym Leaders doesn't matter; each badge grants the same obedience increase.
Here's the breakdown:
| Badge No. | Obedience Level |
|---|---|
| 1 | Level 25 or lower |
| 2 | Level 30 or lower |
| 3 | Level 35 or lower |
| 4 | Level 40 or lower |
| 5 | Level 45 or lower |
| 6 | Level 50 or lower |
| 7 | Level 55 or lower |
| 8 | All levels |
Transferred/Traded Pokémon:
In Scarlet & Violet, the Original Trainer (OT) ID no longer affects obedience. A traded Pokémon's obedience is determined by its level at the time of transfer or trade. A level 17 Pokémon traded and subsequently leveled beyond 20 will still obey; a level 21 Pokémon will not. The "met level" is the crucial factor.
