Train Your Pokémon Effectively: Unleash Obedience in Scarlet & Violet

Understanding Pokemon Obedience in Scarlet & Violet: A Comprehensive Guide

Pokemon obedience, a long-standing mechanic, has seen some evolution. Generally, newly caught Pokémon obey up to level 20. Higher obedience levels require Gym Badges. Scarlet & Violet largely maintain this, but with a key difference: obedience is tied to the Pokémon's level at the time of capture.

Disobedience in Pokemon Scarlet & Violet

How Obedience Works in Gen 9

Unlike previous generations (like Sword/Shield), a Pokémon's obedience in Gen 9 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 at level 21. However, a level 21 Fletchinder caught with zero badges will disobey until a badge is earned.

Disobedient Pokémon refuse auto-battle commands (indicated by a blue speech bubble), may refuse moves in battle, or even self-inflict status conditions like sleep or confusion.

Obedience Level and Badge Requirements

Understanding Gym Badges

Check your Pokémon's obedience level on your Trainer Card (access via the Y-button map, then X-button for Profile).

To increase obedience, you must earn Gym Badges through the Victory Road storyline. Each badge increases the obedience level by 5. Paldea's open world allows flexible Gym order.

Badge Obedience Levels:

Obedience is determined by badge count, not the specific Gym Leader defeated.

Transferred or Traded Pokemon Obedience

Does OT Matter?

Previously, the Original Trainer (OT) ID affected obedience. Traded Pokémon exceeding the obedience level would disobey.

In Scarlet & Violet, OT is irrelevant. The Pokémon's level at the time of transfer or trade determines its "met level" for obedience purposes. A level 17 traded Pokémon will obey even if leveled beyond 20; a level 21 traded Pokémon will not.