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Understanding Pokemon Obedience in Scarlet & Violet: A Comprehensive Guide

Pokemon obedience, a long-standing mechanic, has undergone some refinements in Generation 9. While generally mirroring past generations (Pokemon below level 20 typically obey), Scarlet & Violet introduce a key distinction: obedience is tied to the Pokemon's level at the time of capture.

How Obedience Works in Gen 9

Unlike previous games like Sword/Shield, a Pokemon's obedience in Scarlet & Violet is determined solely by its level when caught. Pokemon caught at level 20 or below will always obey. However, a Pokemon caught above level 20 will be disobedient until you earn your first Gym Badge. Crucially, if a Pokemon is caught within the obedience range, it 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. Conversely, a level 21 Fletchinder caught with zero badges will disobey until a badge is earned.

Disobedient Pokemon will refuse commands, indicated by a blue speech bubble. In battle, this can manifest as refusal to use moves, self-inflicted damage (e.g., through confusion), or falling asleep.

Obedience Levels and Gym Badges

Your Pokemon's obedience level is easily 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 levels.

The Paldea region's open-world nature allows flexible Gym Leader battles. The obedience levels per badge are:

Note: Obedience is determined by the number of badges, not the specific Gym Leader defeated.

Transferred or Traded Pokemon: Does the Original Trainer (OT) Matter?

Unlike previous generations, the Original Trainer (OT) ID no longer affects obedience in Scarlet & Violet. A traded Pokemon's obedience is judged by its level at the time of the trade. A level 17 Pokemon traded and subsequently leveled beyond 20 will still obey; a level 21 Pokemon will not. The "met level" is effectively the level at the time of transfer or trade.