What if Pokemon grew into their stages instead of evolving instantaneously?
In-Progress Pokemon explores how Pokemon might look if they physically transitioned from one evolutionary stage to another.
In-Progress Pokemon is my name for the concept of exploring how Pokemon might look if they physically transitioned from one evolutionary stage to another. Basically: if Pokemon grew rather than evolved. The “transitional stages” that I illustrate aren’t meant to be taken as actual additional evolutionary stages; rather, as a snap-shot in time while the Pokemon is growing or transitioning between each evolutionary stage. The flavor text/descriptions help to bridge the evolutionary gaps as well, and they’re named for fun.
Commission Status: Closed while I work through my current queue.
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New art is posted Monday and/or Thursday as I’m able. I have twice daily reblogs of older work. If you’d prefer not to see those on your dash you can blacklist the tag “IPPreblog,” which I use for that purpose. You can also click on “New Art Only view” to only see posts with new artwork :)
(10/23/25) - Work on regular updates have resumed after a busy October!
#761.5 - Bounsweet exclude a delicious smell from their entire body which has a calming effect on humans, making them a popular Pokemon found in Alolan homes. Those who aren’t cared for by a Trainer often end up as prey, as predators are drawn towards their delicious aroma, and their stubby legs and rotund body make it difficult for them to flee. As Bounsweet age, the calyx on their head grows harder, granting them more protection from predators and a resulting increase in confidence. Able to better defend themselves, they enjoy socializing and playing with other Pokemon.
#762.5 - Only the strongest Steenee are able to evolve. These popular individuals evolve with the blessings of other Steenee, and once they’ve finished growing into a Tsareena, they use their impressive and powerful kicks to protect defenseless Bounsweet. Being strong enough to evolve causes Steenee to think very highly of themselves, and they will critically judge those who they find aren’t up to par. Steenee raised by competent Trainers are typically strong enough to evolve, though they must be taught how to properly utilize their stomp.
#333.5 - Swablu possess fluffy, cloud-like wings, which continue to grow quite large as they age. The soft, cotton-like downy feathers spread to cover its entire lower body, which help this Pokemon blend in with the sky when flying. Swablu have a trusting nature, and will often serenade passing trainers with a beautiful song. Though visually similar between stages, Swablu undergo a serious internal change as they mature to Cirrenata and later Altaria, gaining a Dragon typing once evolving. Fully mature Altaria are able to launch incredibly hot fire attacks from their mouth.
Named: Swablu - Cirrenata - Altaria
#334 Mega - When Altaria have a strong bond with their trainer and are in possession of Altarianite, they are capable of evolving into Mega Altaria. As they Mega Evolve, Altaria’s cloud-like feathers grow into an impressive plumage that glimmers with an iridescent sheen, granting them additional protection and a higher defense. Temporarily gaining the Fairy-typing, Mega Altaria’s singing voice is even more beautiful than that of its regular form. The rush of energy from Mega Evolving erases these Pokemon’s timid nature, making them sociable and confident.
#664.5 - Scatterbug spend most of this short phase of life eating plant material and avoiding bird Pokemon. When attacked by avian foes Scatterbug spew a poisonous black powder that causes paralysis on contact, allowing them to escape. The same powder covers their body and regulates their temperature, allowing them to live in any region or climate. As they age, Scatterbug’s thick, powder-filled fur grows to cover their body and provide additional protection.
#665.5 -
Spewpa are protected from harm by their bushy coat of fur; when a predator attacks, they quickly bristle this fur in an effort to threaten them. If that fails, they will spew their poisonous powder. Spewpa mature incredibly quickly. Their thick fur enables them to develop their new body rapidly while their head remains exposed. Vivillon emerge as soon as their evolution is complete, though their wings must dry and firm up before they can fly. A mature Vivillon’s wings are covered in sensitive, powdery scales that change patterns depending on the climate and topography of their habitat.
#??? - On rare occasion, an Eevee can be affected by more than one environmental factor, and reacts to grow into a new, rare evolution. Fairy/Dragon Eeveelutions are an unusual sight in the wild, created when Dragon and Fairy-types - natural enemies - join together to raise an Eevee. These Eeveelutions, named Mytheon for their rareness, possess thick, armor-like scales around their chest that protect their vital organs from the brunt of any attacks. Their transparent, chitinous wings are stronger than they look, allowing these Pokemon to traverse their large territory with ease. Mytheon have a habit of ‘adopting’ weak or injured Pokemon and taking them under their wing, protecting them against larger threats. Able to affect the emotions of those around them, they exude a aura that can either induce deep calm or an intimidating fear. Usually preferring to avoid a battle, Mytheon are fierce fighters if provoked and have a tendency to be territorial. You can easily get in their good graces by offering them anything sweet or shiny to add to their collection of goods.
#004.5 - Though not often spotted in the wild, Charmander can be found in hot, mountainous areas. They are born with the flame on the tip of their tail burning. The condition of the fire is an indication on the health and emotion of each individual. They are extremely protective of this flame, which is said to be a measure of their life force; if the flame were to go out, their life would end. As Charmander mature into Charguana and later Chameleon, their orange scales deep in color and a singular horn begins to grow. These Pokémon shed their agreeable nature as they grow stronger, developing a hot-headed and battle-hungry nature.
#005.5 - Charmeleon are fierce and aggressive Pokémon, known for their barbaric nature in battle. They ruthlessly defeat foes with sharp claws and blazing flames, calming only after securing victory. When a Charmeleon’s internal flame reaches a certain intensity, they begin to sprout wings. These small, fragile wings cannot yet support flight and remain unusable until the Pokémon fully evolves. As Charmeleon mature into Charmodo, their single horn splits into two. Fully grown horns fill them with a great sense of pride, boosting their firepower and amplifying their arrogance. A fully evolved Charizard wields flames so intense they can melt even solid boulders.
#006 Mega - Charizard may Mega Evolve at any time as long as their trainers are in possession of both the Key Stone and Charizardite - as well as a strong bond with the Pokemon. Charizard has the rare ability to mega evolve into two different mega evolutions depending on the mega stone they holding. When exposed to Charizardite X, the adrenaline produced during the evolution process grants Charizard X a considerable physical boost equal to the strength and durability of a dragon type Pokemon; however, the extreme exertion is only temporary. During this time, the fire burning inside Charizard X becomes so hot and powerful that it constantly surges from its mouth. When exposed to Charizardite Y, Charizard Y gains an elongated, sleek appearance, which aids in their flying prowess and allows them to reach incredible heights. A boost in Special Attack keeps their fire burning hotter than ever.
#004.5 - Though not often spotted in the wild, Charmander can be found in hot, mountainous areas. They are born with the flame on the tip of their tail burning. The condition of the fire is an indication on the health and emotion of each individual. They are extremely protective of this flame, which is said to be a measure of their life force; if the flame were to go out, their life would end. As Charmander mature into Charguana and later Chameleon, their orange scales deep in color and a singular horn begins to grow. These Pokémon shed their agreeable nature as they grow stronger, developing a hot-headed and battle-hungry nature.
#005.5 - Charmeleon are fierce and aggressive Pokémon, known for their barbaric nature in battle. They ruthlessly defeat foes with sharp claws and blazing flames, calming only after securing victory. When a Charmeleon’s internal flame reaches a certain intensity, they begin to sprout wings. These small, fragile wings cannot yet support flight and remain unusable until the Pokémon fully evolves. As Charmeleon mature into Charmodo, their single horn splits into two. Fully grown horns fill them with a great sense of pride, boosting their firepower and amplifying their arrogance. A fully evolved Charizard wields flames so intense they can melt even solid boulders.
#006 Mega - Charizard may Mega Evolve at any time as long as their trainers are in possession of both the Key Stone and Charizardite - as well as a strong bond with the Pokemon. Charizard has the rare ability to mega evolve into two different mega evolutions depending on the mega stone they holding. When exposed to Charizardite X, the adrenaline produced during the evolution process grants Charizard X a considerable physical boost equal to the strength and durability of a dragon type Pokemon; however, the extreme exertion is only temporary. During this time, the fire burning inside Charizard X becomes so hot and powerful that it constantly surges from its mouth. When exposed to Charizardite Y, Charizard Y gains an elongated, sleek appearance, which aids in their flying prowess and allows them to reach incredible heights. A boost in Special Attack keeps their fire burning hotter than ever.
#222.5 - Long ago, Johtonian Corsola were commonplace along Galar’s shores, but sudden climate change caused a new variant to appear that is native only to Galar. These Galarian Corsola have been bleached a ghastly white, and have taken on the Ghost typing. The semitransparent branches that grow from its body are not actually corporeal, and they’re incapable of causing injury or pain. However, if an opponent comes in contact with them, these branches will take root in the victim’s body and absorb its life-force, leaving it unable to move. After continuing to store up the energy they have absorbed from other creatures for so long, Galarian Corsola begin to lose their corporeal body, their spirit energy overflowing and pouring out of their former shell. Those who touch the ectoplasm will rapidly stiffen, making them easy prey.
#215.51 - Sneasel are devious, talented hunters, and work well in pairs or small groups to execute impressive heists. As this nocturnal predator ages, they study other Sneasel and Weavile to learn how to better use their sharp, hooked claws for maneuvering through trees unseen. Skilled Sneasel seem to evolve faster, as shown by the impressive crimson crown they grow, and these individuals often become higher ranking members within their community. Trainers can try to emulate this knowledge by providing captured Sneasel with a Razor Claw - a preserved remain from a deceased Weavile.
Named: Sneasel - Fearret - Weavile
#215.52 - Sneasel in the Hisui region are solitary Pokemon that have adapted to living on the cliffsides of the frozen highlands of Hisui. Unlike Johtonian Sneasel that live and work in groups, Hisuian Sneasel have venomous claws that they hone without help, learning on their own to use the sturdy and curved appendages to climb and travel through mountainous terrain with ease. As Hisiuan Sneasel mature, becoming expert climbers and lithe hunters, their venom becomes increasingly stronger in turn. Due to their severe poison and daunting physical prowess, they become the apex predators of their habitat, evolving into the Hisui-native Sneasler.
Said to have be born from a burnt charcoal, Charcadet have a fiery fighting spirit and will battle opponents stronger than themselves without hesitation. Their firepower increases in temperature as they fight, reaching temperatures of over 1,800°F. As they age, some Charcadet are driven to begin slowly assembling a set of armor from the remains of ancient warriors. Depending on the armor they find and how they assemble it, they may evolve into either Armarouge or Ceruledge.
#935.51 - Those who collect armor with psychic energy begin to evolve into Squirlet, and later Armarouge, channeling the lingering psionic power within as they grow. Fully evolved Armarouge are known for their loyalty and formidable psychic and fire abilities. Trainers can guide their Charcadet to evolve into Squirlet by locating a set of the legendary Auspicious Armor and assisting their Pokémon in implementing the protective plating.
Named: Charcadet - Squirlet - Armarouge
#935.52 - Those who collect armor with lingering malicious will steeped within it will begin to evolve into Lavenger, and later Ceruledge, channeling the lingering malevolent power within as they grow. The lingering grudges of spirits past fuels this Pokémon’s evolution. Fully evolved Ceruledge are known for their fiery blades, which burn fiercely with the persisting resentment of a sword wielder who fell before accomplishing their goal, as well as their merciless drive. Trainers can guide their Charcadet to evolve into Lavenger by locating a set of the legendary Malicious Armor and assisting their Pokémon in implementing the protective plating… and the curse set within.
Naming time! Thank you for the many great suggestions; I had a hard time narrowing it down, but ultimately I’m going with Squirlet (squire + scarlet) and Lavenger (lavender + avenger), suggested by @severebagelmakerpeach and @sheepydrawings respectively. I liked involving their colors in both, plus leaning into Armarouge’s role as a knight and Ceruledge’s role as an avenging spirit. There were many, many good ones to choose from though. Thanks all!
#938.5 - Tadbulb are small, amphibious Pokémon that are known to inhabit wetlands and riverbanks. By rapidly shaking their tails, they generate and store electricity, which they use to float and unleash electrical attacks; during storms, they can even rise to higher altitudes. When one Tadbulb senses danger, it flashes the light on its head to warn nearby allies. By experiencing many electrical storms, Tadbulb will begin their evolution into Bellibolt. Their color deepens as their body swells, developing a new belly-button dynamo in their stomach to produce electricity. Due to this change, their redundant tail will slowly recede as small legs develop; by the time the tail is fully reabsorbed, these easygoing Pokémon will be walking sluggishly on their feet. What appear to be eyeballs are actually specialized organs used to discharge the electricity produced by their internal generator. Trainers seeking to evolve Tadbulb safely often rely on a Thunderstone to guide this process.
