Pokémon Scarlett & Violet Guide Unveiled

Understanding Pokemon Obedience in Scarlet & Violet

Pokemon obedience has evolved throughout the series, and Scarlet and Violet introduce some key changes. This guide clarifies how obedience works in Gen 9.

Obedience in Gen 9

Unlike previous generations (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. 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 threshold.

For instance, a level 20 Fletchinder caught with no badges will obey even after leveling to 21. However, a level 21 Fletchinder caught with no 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 (sleeping or self-damaging) in battle.

Gym Badges and Obedience Levels

Your Pokémon's obedience level is checked via your Trainer Card (Y-button on the map, then X-button to select Profile). Each Gym Badge increases the obedience level by 5. The order in which you challenge Gym Leaders doesn't matter; the badge itself determines the level.

Transferred/Traded Pokémon

Unlike previous generations, the Original Trainer (OT) ID no longer affects obedience. The level of a traded or transferred Pokémon at the time of transfer determines its obedience status. A level 17 Pokémon traded to you will obey even if leveled beyond 20; a level 21 Pokémon will disobey until you earn badges.