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Pokémon obedience has been a core mechanic since the franchise's inception, evolving slightly across generations. Generally, Pokémon obey up to level 20. Further obedience increases require Gym Badges. Pokémon Scarlet & Violet largely maintain this system, with disobedient Pokémon refusing commands when over-leveled. However, a key difference distinguishes Gen 9 from its predecessors.
Disobedience in Pokémon Scarlet & Violet
How Obedience Works in Gen 9
Unlike in Pokémon Sword and Shield, a Pokémon's obedience in Gen 9 is determined by its level at the time of capture. Newly started trainers will find that Pokémon caught at level 20 or below will readily follow commands. Pokémon caught above level 20 will be disobedient until your first Gym Badge is earned. Crucially, a Pokémon caught within the obedience range will remain obedient even if it levels up beyond that initial threshold.
For instance, with zero Badges, a level 20 Fletchinder will obey even after leveling up to 21. However, a level 21 Fletchinder caught at that level will be disobedient until a Badge is obtained.
Disobedient Pokémon refuse auto-battle commands, indicated by a blue speech bubble. In battles, they might refuse commands, fall asleep, or self-inflict damage through confusion.
Obedience Level and Badge Requirements in Scarlet & Violet
Understanding Gym Badges
Your Pokémon's obedience level is viewable on your Trainer Card:
- Open the map (Y button).
- Select the Profile option (X button).
To catch and command stronger Pokémon, progress through the Victory Road storyline, collecting all eight Paldea Gym Badges and challenging the Pokémon League. Each Badge increases the obedience level by 5 levels.
Paldea's open world allows flexible Gym Leader battles. Beginners might consider the Cortondo or Artazon Gyms.
The obedience levels per Badge are:
Obedience is determined by Badge count, not the specific Gym Leader defeated. Defeating Brassius first raises the level to 25; defeating Katy afterward raises it to 30.
Will Transferred or Traded Pokémon Still Obey?
Does OT Matter?
Each Pokémon has an Original Trainer (OT) ID. In previous generations, the OT affected obedience; traded Pokémon exceeding the obedience level would disobey.
In Scarlet and Violet, OT is irrelevant to obedience. Transferred/traded Pokémon are judged by their level at the time of transfer/trade. A level 17 Pokémon traded and subsequently leveled beyond 20 will still obey. Conversely, a level 21 Pokémon received via trade will be disobedient.
