Mastering Pokémon Scarlet & Violet's Obedience Mechanic: A Comprehensive Guide
Obedience, a long-standing Pokémon mechanic, has seen some adjustments in Generation IX. While generally mirroring previous generations—Pokémon typically obey up to level 20, with higher obedience levels tied to Gym Badges—Scarlet & Violet introduce a key difference: obedience is determined by the Pokémon's level at the time of capture.
Understanding Obedience in Gen 9
Unlike in Sword/Shield, a Pokémon's obedience in Scarlet & Violet is set at the moment of capture. Pokémon caught at level 20 or below will always obey commands. Pokémon caught above level 20 will be disobedient until you earn your first Gym Badge. Crucially, a Pokémon caught within the obedience limit will remain obedient even if it levels up beyond that limit.
For instance, a level 20 Fletchinder caught with zero badges will obey commands even after leveling to 21. However, a level 21 Fletchinder caught with zero badges will disobey until a badge is obtained.
Disobedient Pokémon will refuse auto-battle commands, indicated by a blue speech bubble. In battles, they may refuse commands, fall asleep, or inflict self-harm through confusion.
Gym Badges and Obedience Levels
Your Pokémon's obedience level is viewable on your Trainer Card (accessed via the map (Y-button) and Profile (X-button)). Each Gym Badge increases the obedience level by 5. The order in which you challenge Gym Leaders is irrelevant; each badge unlocks a new obedience threshold.
| Badge No. | Obedience Level |
|---|---|
| 1 | Pokémon caught at level 25 or lower obey. |
| 2 | Pokémon caught at level 30 or lower obey. |
| 3 | Pokémon caught at level 35 or lower obey. |
| 4 | Pokémon caught at level 40 or lower obey. |
| 5 | Pokémon caught at level 45 or lower obey. |
| 6 | Pokémon caught at level 50 or lower obey. |
| 7 | Pokémon caught at level 55 or lower obey. |
| 8 | All Pokémon obey regardless of level. |
Transferred or Traded Pokémon: Does OT Matter?
Previously, a Pokémon's Original Trainer (OT) ID influenced obedience. Traded Pokémon exceeding the obedience level would disobey. However, in Scarlet & Violet, OT is irrelevant. 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.
