Pokémon Gen IX: Obedience Guide Unveiled

Understanding Pokemon Obedience in Scarlet & Violet: A Comprehensive Guide

Obedience in Pokémon has evolved since the first generation. Generally, newly caught Pokémon obey commands up to a certain level, increasing with earned Gym Badges. Pokémon Scarlet & Violet maintain this core mechanic, but with a key difference: obedience is tied to the Pokémon's level at the time of capture, not its current level.

How Obedience Works in Gen 9

Unlike previous generations (like Sword/Shield), a Pokémon's obedience in Scarlet & Violet is determined by its level when caught. 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 obtained.

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

Obedience Levels and Gym Badges

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.

Transferred or Traded Pokémon Obedience

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 to you will obey even if leveled beyond 20, whereas a level 21 Pokémon will disobey until you earn a badge.