- Primary Subject: Pokémon Evolutionary Mechanics (Core Series / Legends: Z-A)
- Key Update: While core evolutions remain capped at three, the recent Mega Dimension DLC for Pokémon Legends: Z-A (Dec 2025) and the 2026 "Super Max" update in Pokémon GO have introduced fourth-tier temporary forms, fueling rumors of a permanent "Stage 4" in the upcoming Generation 10.
- Status: Leaked (Gen 10 rumors) / Confirmed (Temporary 4th-tier Mega forms)
- Last Verified: February 23, 2026
- Quick Answer: Adding a fourth evolution stage would revitalize older Pokémon, disrupt stagnant competitive metas, and provide players with a longer, more rewarding sense of progression and mystery.
When playing any of the Pokemon games, leveling up and seeing the different forms that all the creatures could take on is one of the most exciting things. Even if you're a longtime fan and you already know what's coming, you can still look forward to it, as the feeling of getting that cool, cute, or even scary-looking Pokemon you've spent time on and worked hard for is like no other.
As wonderful as the evolution mechanic may be, the one problem I have with it is that it only has three stages. This has always been the case, starting from the first generation line of games all the way to the current one, and it's a wonder why that still hasn't changed. The next mainline Pokemon game, or future ones, could certainly fix that, and it would be to the series' benefit.
One big reason is that it would help elicit excitement and anticipation within longtime fans again. As mentioned earlier, veterans of the series can still enjoy what certain Pokemon will evolve into despite knowing what the next stage will look like, but it's sad knowing that the mystery is gone.
That feeling of seeing a new form for the first time was what many people who played the classic titles loved, and what made them longtime fans to begin with. While they can still somewhat get that from new Pokemon that come with the next-generation mainline entry, they'll likely only want to use ones they're familiar with that are granted the honor of returning, removing that little bit of excitement that should come with playing the game.
However, by introducing additional evolutionary stages, especially for some of the older Pokemon, it can bring back that anticipation and excitement to longtime fans. Favorites from previous games could be granted the honor of receiving a fourth or even fifth new evolution, and the idea of not knowing which one can trigger the same excitement and anticipation that longtime fans had back when they were new to the series, thus roping them back to it and making them fall in love all over again.
Another big reason more evolutionary stages would be beneficial is that it gives new life to certain Pokemon. Let's face it, certain Pokemon have horrible designs when evolving to their final form, both in how they look and the stat bonuses they gain, leading certain players to outright ignore them.
It's a shame that many fall into this category, and one of the best ways to help them get out of it is by giving them more evolution stages. Pokemon with horrible designs and/or stats are essentially given an additional chance to fix what's wrong, which could end up saving them and perhaps making them more relevant than longtime popular choices like Charizard, Metagross, Garchomp, etc.
Also, such a thing could lead to a huge shift in the competitive scene, as those deemed to be in the lower tier or even unviable could rise and take over just because of a new evolution or two. Essentially, it can be thought of as an opportunity for these Pokemon to redeem themselves after being ignored or even hated for so long, which is honestly a good thing for fans, as it gives them more options to enjoy more of what they're playing.
Now, the final reason why evolutionary stages should go beyond three stages is that it makes the entire evolution process feel more gratifying. While leveling up a Pokemon and seeing it transform into a new form is always rewarding, that eventually stops once you hit the final stage. The majority of Pokemon reach their final evolutions at around the 30 or 40 level mark, which won't take long to reach.
This means that once players get to that point, barring a few moves that can still be learned, there's nothing really to look forward to anymore. That satisfaction of seeing Pokemon turn into something stronger comes and goes really quickly, but that feeling can be extended by adding evolutionary stages.
Adding one or two more forms means players have more opportunities to earn that feeling of accomplishment of raising something to its best state, which in turn would make them enjoy the game even more. Also, this means having to grind even more due to the new level requirements for the new evolutionary stages, which is perfect for further ensuring that fans sink more time into having more fun and playing.
With all that said, Pokemon evolutions need to go beyond third stages, as there are too many good things that would come from it happening. There is a good chance that the next mainline entry in the series could do that, and hopefully it does. If not, then I have a feeling it will happen in a future game, as it's one of the best ways to ensure people still love Pokemon for years to come, and that's something Nintendo and Game Freak will definitely want.
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