I did a real short step (uber hochkurz ;D) 15m per step and even then I noticed the foam improvement too. Is it necessary? I don’t know but it was noticeable and pretty cool. I use 5% flaked wheat in my infusions to achieve similar results.
It’s pretty much like anything, try things and find out for yourself and enjoy the ride. Dare I say this but I would say there is probably only a 10% difference in all various mashing techniques. I remember at one time worrying a 3 hour decoction mash would result in a super malty sweet beer and then it basically the same results as an infusion… Going back to pH, I find higher to be more malty and lower drier and the flavor impact far more than temp. That said, the grist still is king.