Mastering Pokémon Scarlet & Violet's Obedience Mechanic: A Comprehensive Guide
Obedience in Pokémon has evolved since the first generation, and Pokémon Scarlet & Violet introduces a key difference. This guide clarifies how obedience works in Gen 9 and addresses common questions.
How Obedience Works in Gen 9
Unlike previous generations, a Pokémon's obedience in Scarlet & Violet is determined by its level at the time of capture. Pokémon caught at level 20 or below will always obey commands. 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 threshold.
For instance, a level 20 Fletchinder caught with zero badges will obey commands even after leveling up to 21. However, a level 21 Fletchinder caught with zero badges will disobey until you obtain a badge.
Disobedient Pokémon will refuse auto-battle commands (indicated by a blue speech bubble), may refuse to use moves in battle, or might even inflict self-harm through confusion or sleep.
Obedience Levels and Gym Badges
Your Trainer Card (accessed via the map (Y button) and Profile (X button)) shows your Pokémon's obedience level. Each Gym Badge increases this level by 5. The obedience level dictates the maximum level at which a Pokémon will obey your commands.
| Badge No. | Obedience Level |
|---|---|
| 1 | Level 25 or lower |
| 2 | Level 30 or lower |
| 3 | Level 35 or lower |
| 4 | Level 40 or lower |
| 5 | Level 45 or lower |
| 6 | Level 50 or lower |
| 7 | Level 55 or lower |
| 8 | All levels |
The obedience level is tied to the number of badges, not the specific Gym Leader defeated.
Transferred or Traded Pokémon Obedience
In contrast to previous games, the Original Trainer (OT) ID no longer affects obedience in Scarlet & Violet. The Pokémon's level at the time of transfer or trade determines its obedience. A traded level 17 Pokémon will obey even after leveling beyond 20, while a traded level 21 Pokémon will disobey until a badge is earned.
LATEST ARTICLES 23
2025-12
The Frost Festival makes a grand return in the absolutely packed Version 4.1 update.Penguins arrive with PowNin, your very own AI companion for the battle.A variety of themed events, challenges, and exclusive rewards await players.Winter is arriving
Author: ZacharyReading:2
23
2025-12
With the arrival of Call of Duty Season 4, Activision has stirred controversy by embedding promotional content directly into the loadout menus of Black Ops 6 and Warzone. The move, which introduced unavoidable advertisements for weapon bundles within the build and weapon selection screens, has drawn
Author: ZacharyReading:1
22
2025-12
Bandai Namco showcased Digimon Alysion, a new mobile trading card game, at DIGIMON CON 2025. Dive into the details of this exciting project and the latest trailer for Digimon Story: Time Stranger.DIGI
Author: ZacharyReading:2
22
2025-12
Switch between handheld and wireless modes Compact design with full-sized joysticks Enhanced Backbone app for easy access Following the Backbone One 2nd-gen controller’s support for t
Author: ZacharyReading:2
