Last Z Research Priority Guide — What to Research First
Quick Answer
Optimal research order in Last Z: 1) Hero Training → stop at Cockpit, 2) Military Strategies → Troop HP buffs, 3) Peace Shield → Urgent Rescue (-20% losses), 4) Siege to Seize (optional), 5) UST for T10 units (long-term). Don't max Hero Training — badges are better spent elsewhere. Buy the second laboratory ASAP.
Research Priority Order
Step 1: Hero Training → Cockpit Only
Why: Cockpit gives meaningful hero stat boosts. After Cockpit, you only get ~400 extra ATK/DEF for extremely high badge costs.
Common mistake: Many players max Hero Training thinking it's important. It's a badge trap. Stop at Cockpit and move on.
Step 2: Military Strategies → Troop HP
Why: This tree is cheap and provides crucial Troop HP buffs. Focus on the bottom nodes that match your main faction's troop type (Assaulter for Blood Rose, etc.).
Tip: Don't max "Move Out" — it's expensive. Upgrade to level 10-20 max.
Step 3: Peace Shield → Urgent Rescue
Unlock requirements: 50% Shelter Building + 45% Military Strategies.
Key research: Urgent Rescue reduces unit deaths by up to 20% (10 ranks). This is the direct counter to enemy Annihilation skill. Essential for PvP.
Step 4: Siege to Seize (Situational)
Warning: This tree increases your Destruction Value. Only research if you're ready for more aggressive gameplay.
When to skip: If you prefer defensive play or are in a NAP alliance, delay this tree.
Step 5: UST (Special Unit Training)
Goal: Unlock T10 units — the strongest troops in the game.
Cost: ~1.4 million badges total. Takes years for F2P or ~$15,000 to speed up.
Pro tip: Start UST immediately after Urgent Rescue if you're committed to long-term progression.
Research Tips from Top Players
- Buy Second Laboratory — doubles your research speed, essential purchase
- Align with Capital Buff — reduces research time by 1 hour when active
- Save stars and speed-ups — use during research events for bonus rewards
- Don't rush Fully Armed Alliance (FAA) — leave it for later, focus on defensive research first
- Check unlock requirements — plan your path to unlock new trees efficiently
Research Trees Unlock Order
How Trees Unlock
Each research tree unlocks when you complete or reach a certain percentage in previous trees:
- New Home → unlocks HQ Management
- 100% Elite Troops → unlocks Military Strategies
- 50% Shelter + 45% Military Strategies → unlocks Peace Shield
Frequently Asked Questions
What research should I prioritize in Last Z?
Priority order: Hero Training to Cockpit → Military Strategies → Peace Shield (Urgent Rescue) → Siege to Seize → UST. This maximizes combat power while efficiently using badges.
Is Hero Training worth maxing in Last Z?
No. Only research until Cockpit. After that, you get minimal stats (+400 ATK/DEF) for very high badge costs. Those badges are better spent on Military Strategies or saving for UST.
What is Urgent Rescue in Last Z?
Urgent Rescue is a Peace Shield research that reduces unit deaths by up to 20%. It directly counters the enemy's Annihilation skill. Must-have for PvP content.
How many badges do I need for T10 units?
Approximately 1.4 million badges for full T10 unlock through UST. This takes years for F2P players. Whales can speed it up for around $15,000 USD.
Should I buy the second laboratory?
Yes, 100%. It doubles your research speed. One of the best investments in the game. Buy it as soon as you can afford it.
How do I unlock new research trees?
Complete or reach certain percentages in current trees. Example: 100% Elite Troops unlocks Military Strategies. 50% Shelter + 45% Military Strategies unlocks Peace Shield.
Glossary
Research Abbreviations
- UST — Special Unit Training (for T10 units)
- PS — Peace Shield
- STS — Siege to Seize
- FAA — Fully Armed Alliance
- T10 — Tier 10 units (strongest troops)
- Badges — Currency for research
- Cockpit — Key research in Hero Training tree