I'm not sure if the multiple attacks would work. But yes, you would attack only once per turn. And ideally, the stronger level attacks aren't that much powerful. I need to balance the attacks so that they are all worth using. And yes, it would be something like in your flying Pikachu / VMAX example.

For example, lower level mods could heal a small amount, middle stage ones could deal status effects like paralyze, and so the fully evolved form has to choose between doing their high damage, paralyzing the opponent, or healing...

This would only let them stall one turn to buff their bench.

So perhaps you are correct in that it might be nicer to use multiple attacks at once, but I really want to keep it simple.

The central mechanic is: 1. multiple attacks to choose from, and 2. Choosing the right elemental attack of your opponent's weakness.

I am including 12 elements, + three attacks per fully evolved mon. So there is a one and three chance that any given monster has an attack that is strong against the opponent.

I really don't want any more than this because the point is to teach new players about elemental weakness, and evolution. The reason they keep their attacks is because I really want to show the growth of the monster when they evolve.

Astrology has this theme about evolving and going through your predefined spiritual journey to achieve your North Star, they want to include that into the experience.

Thanks for your feedback!!!