What should I review before buying from the shop?
Open daily quests first, then buy around the quest and your current blocker. Random buying slows progress because quest completion should shape the next purchase.
What should I do with gems before decorations?
Prioritize gem mines over decorative buys when the goal is progression. AFK gem production changes your upgrade pace; decoration is a later choice.
How should I handle raids and capture events?
Treat raids as a timed objective: watch for the active notification, take the base, and hold it long enough to earn the reward. For normal map control, capture labs early for research speed, then push money and civilian bases when your economy can hold them.
Which research side should a progressing player prioritize?
Use economy, production, builders, research, trader, and quest-style upgrades before over-investing in army branches. Army pressure works better after the base can fund replacement units.
Which gamepasses are worth comparing first?
Compare Auto Sell, 2x Building Speed, and Auto Collect as convenience passes only after you know the manual loop is slowing your base. Use current in-game prices and descriptions before buying.