Fastest HQ Upgrade Path: HQ1–30

The fastest route to a higher HQ isn't upgrading every building equally.
Focus on the buildings required for your next HQ level and save your major resources and speed-ups for later progression.
Phase 1 — HQ1–18: Fast & Easy
Early progression moves quickly.
Can be completed in a few days
With bonuses, less than 2 days may be possible
Resource costs remain relatively low
Keep moving through your required upgrades rather than trying to maximize every building.
Phase 2 — HQ18–24: Reality Check
This is where construction times begin becoming much more noticeable.
Some upgrades can take a week or more.
Plan your resources and construction queues instead of upgrading buildings randomly.
Phase 3 — HQ24–27: Smart Play Required
At this stage:
Start saving speed-ups
Upgrade buildings required for the next HQ
Plan resources ahead
Don't upgrade something simply because it has a blue upgrade arrow
Every unnecessary upgrade consumes resources and construction time that could have gone toward your next HQ.
Phase 4 — HQ30: Major Milestone
HQ30 is an important late-game progression point.
It:
Raises your hero level cap to 150
Opens the path toward HQ31–35
Is required for progression toward T10 troops
Marks the beginning of preparation for Steel-based HQ upgrades
If HQ31–35 isn't available to you yet, use the waiting period to prepare.
HQ30 Preparation
Start stacking:
Resources • Speed-ups • Construction bonuses
You can also begin strengthening important formation buildings and Hall of Honor buildings once your immediate HQ rush is under control.