The Lab is one of the game’s long-term progression systems. It runs research over real time, unlocks quality-of-life features, and improves systems you use across runs.
It also creates confusion because some Lab features are called “auto” features. Those are in-game automation. TowerLoop is separate Windows software for local emulator input.
What The Lab Does
The Lab lets you start timed research using in-game resources. Research can improve stats, unlock features, upgrade cards or weapons, and add quality-of-life options.
The key planning detail is time. Lab projects do not complete instantly. They run over real time, and longer-term planning matters more than a single click.
Avoid relying on static costs or durations from a guide. Use the values shown in your current Lab screen.
Auto Research
Auto Research is an in-game convenience that continues the current lab line when research completes. It helps avoid manual re-queueing.
This is built into the game. It does not use TowerLoop, ADB, or an external tapper.
Auto Pick Perks And Ranking
Auto Pick Perks affects perk selection during a run. Once unlocked and enabled, the game can choose perks automatically. Auto Pick Ranking adds a priority order so the picker favors the perks you rank.
| Feature | Where it runs | Job |
|---|---|---|
| Auto Research | Inside the game | Continue Lab research |
| Auto Pick Perks | Inside the game | Choose perks during a run |
| Auto Pick Ranking | Inside the game | Prioritize perk choices |
| TowerLoop | Windows/emulator layer | Send configured local input |
The distinction is important: in-game automation is part of the game; TowerLoop is a local desktop utility around the emulator session.
Where TowerLoop Fits
TowerLoop does not choose Lab research, set Lab priorities, or change research timers. It can help with the session-management tasks around long runs: restarts, watchdog recovery, prompt tapping, and configured card taps.
If your goal is automatic perk selection, use the game’s Lab features. If your goal is fewer manual emulator chores around long sessions, look at TowerLoop features and the setup guide.
Practical Takeaways
- Use the Lab screen for current costs, durations, and unlocks.
- Treat Auto Research, Auto Pick Perks, and Auto Pick Ranking as in-game features.
- Use TowerLoop for configured local input around your emulator session, not for changing Lab systems.
- Pair long-run planning with Auto Restart and watchdog recovery if your sessions often stop while you are away.
Users remain responsible for the rules that apply to their own account and setup. For the product-scope and account-rules summary, read the FAQ.