More Evolution Stages for Pokémon Species?

Those who have been with Pokémon long enough will notice that for Pokémon that do evolve, they do so in at most three stages (four, if Mega Evolution is counted, albeit it is rather temporary and separate) - something that I've noted a long time ago with a post about numbers. As noted, three is the apparent maximum for the regular stages. But what if there were more than three of the regular ones? Though in some ways this may be considered a "moot point", it may deserve an exploration to a certain extent.

In one possibility, further stages of evolution could be represented as intermediary forms between the three representative evolutionary stages of a species family. This would allow the species themselves to be retained as proper ones, while the forms would give nuances - a "preview", in a way - of the next stage. This would seem more sensible rather than adding more species, forms, and/or stages on top of existing ones, though Mega Evolution in this regard might still be open if it's allowed to be, even if considered remotely.

Much would still have to be considered whichever way additions are made. With that as a consideration, it becomes apparent why there are not more stages of evolution. The forms and species would still have to be worked out, as does the mechanism for transitioning into them. The status quo of three stages plus Mega Evolution is preferable to be kept, rather than having them be muddied with what may seem to be unnecessary forms, species, or stages. Even with past additions (old upper stages and "Eeveelutions"), the status quo still makes sense.

However, there is one consolation to be made. The "regional forms" (Alolan, Galarian, and soon Hisuian) may just be construed to represent these "additional" stages, which according to their lore would represent offshoots in the case of the first two and precursors for the last one. They also would be representative of "natural" evolution rather than one that occurs as certain species families develop in present age. It would make sense why these "regional forms" have become more prevalent today rather than straight additions to the existing.

After having been presented with three forms at the most (plus Mega Evolution if applicable) for a species line, it may be easier to consider them closed for new forms, species, or stages within or in direct evolutionary connection with the species line. Yet, the "regional forms" are intriguing in that they present indirect connections to species lines that are not linked by "developmental" but "natural" evolution instead, and they would then constitute more stages in a way, even with the 3+1 status quo being the way to go.

One year ago: Pokémon SM KFC Family Meal Toy: Mimikyu & Ultra Ball

Two years ago: Renewed Oaths: Pokémon Direct, 1/9/2020

Three years ago: Custom Pokémon Merchandise

Four years ago: A Pokémon-Pikachu Balloon

Five years ago: Where It All Started