Pokemon Scarlet & Violet: A Guide to Obedience

Understanding Pokemon Obedience in Scarlet & Violet: A Comprehensive Guide

Pokemon obedience, a long-standing mechanic, has undergone refinements in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet. While generally mirroring past generations (Pokemon typically obey up to level 20, with higher obedience tied to Gym Badges), Gen 9 introduces key distinctions.

Obedience in Gen 9: Catch Level Matters

Unlike Sword and Shield, a Pokemon's obedience in Scarlet and Violet is determined by its level at the time of capture. Initially, Pokemon caught at level 20 or below will readily follow commands. Catching a Pokemon above level 20 renders it disobedient until you earn your first Gym Badge. Crucially, a Pokemon caught within the obedience range remains obedient even if it levels up beyond that initial threshold.

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.

Disobedience manifests as refusal of auto-battle commands (indicated by a blue speech bubble), and potentially erratic behavior in battle (e.g., refusing moves, self-inflicted status conditions).

Gym Badges and Obedience Levels

Your Pokemon's obedience level is readily 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. The order in which you challenge Gym Leaders is flexible, thanks to the open-world design.

Transferred/Traded Pokemon: OT is Irrelevant

Contrary to previous generations, the Original Trainer (OT) ID no longer influences obedience in Scarlet and Violet. The Pokemon's level at the time of transfer or trade determines its obedience. A level 17 Pokemon traded and subsequently leveled beyond 20 will still obey, whereas a level 21 traded Pokemon will not.