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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. Beyond that, Gym Badges increase the obedience level. Pokémon Scarlet & Violet largely maintain this, but with a key difference.
Disobedience in Pokémon Scarlet & Violet
How Obedience Works in Gen 9
Unlike in Pokémon Sword and Shield, obedience in Gen 9 is determined by a Pokémon's level at the time of capture. Pokémon caught at level 20 or below will always obey. Pokémon caught above level 20 will disobey until you earn your first Gym Badge. Importantly, a Pokémon caught within the obedience range will remain obedient even if it levels up beyond that limit.
For example: A level 20 Fletchinder caught with zero badges will obey even after leveling to 21. However, a level 21 Fletchinder caught with zero badges will disobey until you earn a badge.
Disobedient Pokémon refuse auto-battle commands, indicated by a blue speech bubble. In battles, they might refuse commands, fall asleep, or inflict self-harm through confusion.
Obedience Level and Badge Requirements in Scarlet & Violet
Understanding Gym Badges
Your Pokémon's obedience level is visible on your Trainer Card (access via the Y button, then X to select Profile).
To command stronger Pokémon, you'll need to progress through the Victory Road storyline, earning all eight Paldea Gym Badges and challenging the Pokémon League. Each badge increases the obedience level by 5.
The open-world nature of Scarlet & Violet allows flexible Gym Leader challenges. Beginners might consider the Cortondo or Artazon Gyms first.
Here's the obedience level per badge:
Obedience is determined by the number of badges, not the specific Gym Leader defeated.
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 & Violet, the OT is irrelevant to obedience. The Pokémon's level at the time of transfer or trade determines its "met level" for obedience purposes.
For example: A level 17 Pokémon traded to you will obey even if leveled beyond 20. A level 21 Pokémon will disobey until you earn badges.
