Miss Dragalia Lost? Play the “True Original” Japan-Exclusive RPG: Shironeko Project

Game
2025.07.01

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Introduction

It has been years since the servers of Dragalia Lost went dark. We miss the dragons, the music (DAOKO!), and most of all, that unique “one-finger swipe” action gameplay.

Many fans are still looking for a replacement, but nothing on the Global App Store feels the same.

But did you know? The gameplay of Dragalia Lost was actually based on a massive Japanese hit called “Shironeko Project” (White Cat Project).

While the global version of Shironeko (Rune Story) died years ago, the Japanese Version is still alive, celebrating its 10th anniversary, and collaborating with huge anime like Demon Slayer and Spy x Family.

If you want to fill the Dragalia-shaped hole in your heart, you need to play Shironeko Project (JP). In this guide, I will show you how to access this Japan-exclusive gem using a VPN.

Why Shironeko Project is the Best Alternative

Some fans might know the history (and the lawsuits), but let’s put that aside. Why should a Dragalia fan play this?

  1. Identical Gameplay: The control system is exactly the same. You swipe to move, tap to attack, and flick to use skills. It will feel instantly familiar to any Dragalia veteran.
  2. Huge Anime Collabs: Dragalia had Fire Emblem and Monster Hunter. Shironeko has Everything. Chainsaw Man, Sword Art Online, Evangelion, Attack on Titan… the list is endless.
  3. No Stamina System: Unlike Dragalia, Shironeko has zero stamina. You can grind as much as you want, whenever you want.

The Barrier: Japan Exclusive

Here is the catch: Shironeko Project is only available on the Japanese App Store and Google Play. Colopl (the developer) strictly blocks downloads from other regions.

To download and update the game, you need to “virtually” move to Japan.

Step 1: Prepare Your VPN

You need a VPN to access the Japanese store. Since this is an action game with Co-op (just like Dragalia’s Raid Battles), you need a low-latency connection.

  • Best for Action Gaming:[NordVPN]
    • Why: Lowest Ping for Co-op battles.
  • Best Budget Option: [Surfshark]

Step 2: How to Download (iOS & Android)

🍎 For iPhone / iPad Users

  1. Get a Japanese Apple ID: Do not change your main account region. Create a separate “Game Account”.
  2. Search & Install: Search for “白猫” (Shiro Neko) or “White Cat”. Look for the icon with a white cat and a black cat.

🤖 For Android Users

  1. Connect VPN to Japan.
  2. Use a Japanese Google Account:
  3. Install from Play Store:
    • Warning: Do not download APKs from random sites. Shironeko has strict anti-cheat/mod detection. Always download from the official Play Store to avoid bans.

Step 3: Overcoming the Language Barrier

“But the game is in Japanese!” Yes, but Dragalia players have an advantage: You already know how the game works.

  • Menu Navigation: The UI layout is standard for Gacha RPGs.
  • Story Translation: Use Google Lens or screen translation apps.
  • Wiki: The [Shironeko Project Wiki] is very detailed.

Step 4: Gacha & Spending (Important)

Shironeko is generous with free gems, but if you want to pull for your favorite Anime Collab character, you might need to spend.

Your credit card will be rejected. Colopl is very strict with foreign payments.

Conclusion: The Legend Continues

Dragalia Lost may be gone, but its spirit lives on in Shironeko Project. The co-op battles, the character building, and the flashy skills are all waiting for you in the Japanese server.

Don’t let the region lock stop you from playing the “Original” Dragalia experience.

Get started today:

  1. Get NordVPN
  2. Create JP Account
  3. Download Shironeko Project.

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