Understanding Pokemon Obedience in Scarlet & Violet: A Comprehensive Guide
Pokemon obedience, a long-standing mechanic, has seen some adjustments in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet. While generally following the pattern of lower-level Pokemon obeying commands, Gen 9 introduces key differences.
Obedience in Gen 9:
Unlike previous generations (like 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 obey commands. Catching a Pokemon above level 20 renders it disobedient until the first Gym Badge is earned. Importantly, a Pokemon caught within the obedience range will remain obedient even if it levels up beyond the initial limit.
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 in battles, the Pokemon might refuse moves, fall asleep, or inflict self-harm through confusion.
Gym Badges and Obedience Levels:
Your Pokemon's obedience level is checked via the 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 order of Gym challenges doesn't affect the obedience level; earning a badge increases it regardless of which Gym Leader is defeated.
Here's a breakdown:
| Badge No. | Obedience Level |
|---|---|
| 1 | Pokemon caught at level 25 or lower obey. |
| 2 | Pokemon caught at level 30 or lower obey. |
| 3 | Pokemon caught at level 35 or lower obey. |
| 4 | Pokemon caught at level 40 or lower obey. |
| 5 | Pokemon caught at level 45 or lower obey. |
| 6 | Pokemon caught at level 50 or lower obey. |
| 7 | Pokemon caught at level 55 or lower obey. |
| 8 | All Pokemon obey regardless of level. |
Transferred or Traded Pokemon:
Unlike previous generations, the Original Trainer (OT) ID no longer affects obedience in Scarlet and Violet. The Pokemon's level at the time of transfer or trade determines its obedience. A traded level 17 Pokemon will obey even after leveling beyond 20; a traded level 21 Pokemon will not obey until the appropriate badge is earned.
