Daily fantasy sports (DFS) continue to grow in popularity, with various platforms offering accessible entry points for users to build lineups, join contests, and potentially win cash prizes. These sites and apps are designed for both newcomers and experienced players looking for engagement with sports beyond traditional viewership.
Innovations in DFS
Two platforms highlighted for their innovative approaches are Dabble and Boom Fantasy. Dabble, launched in October 2023, integrates social media elements, allowing users to connect with others on the app. Unlike many traditional DFS platforms that use salary caps, Boom Fantasy enables users to select players and forecast their performance.
Other notable DFS platforms include PrizePicks, Sleeper, and Chalkboard. PrizePicks offers a direct competition against the house, contrasting with Dabble's model, which often involves competing against large groups of other participants. Sleeper, initially a fantasy news platform, has expanded into DFS and fantasy gaming. Chalkboard provides an alternative lines system suitable for those new to DFS.
How DFS Works
Many popular DFS apps now focus on simplified "pick'em" contests, where users predict whether a player will exceed or fall short of a statistical projection, rather than building complex full rosters. This format simplifies the entry process. DFS contests center on individual player performance and, unlike sportsbooks that bet on game outcomes, are often regulated separately in many states. These contests are available for various sports, including the NFL, NBA, MLB, soccer, college sports, UFC, and tennis.
Dabble Fantasy emphasizes social interaction, allowing users to follow other players' picks and engage in live discussions during games. Established in Australia in May 2020 and launched in the U.S. in October 2023, Dabble's design includes a social feed and curated content.
Boom Fantasy provides quick, casual contests with cash prizes, differing from traditional DFS by offering unique game modes and avoiding salary caps or complex draft mechanics. Players engage by answering straightforward sports questions to win money.
Underdog, launched in 2020, offers distinctive features like Flex pick'em entries and a Best Ball format, setting it apart from sites that primarily focus on salary-cap formats and more intricate entry rules. Underdog also provides daily, weekly, and season-long fantasy sports contests.
Welcome Offers and Accessibility
DFS platforms frequently offer different welcome bonuses, with the best choice depending on a user's preferred playing style. "Bet & Get" offers are often suited for low-risk testing of apps, while deposit match bonuses provide additional funds for users who plan to play more regularly.
Dabble offers a "Play $5, Get $10" bonus with the promo code NYPBONUS. Users must be 18 or older in most states where Dabble operates, with age requirements varying by state. The bonus credit must be wagered before winnings can be withdrawn. Dabble is available in numerous U.S. states and Washington D.C.
Boom Fantasy's welcome offer includes a "Play $5, Get $40" bonus with the promo code NYP. Registration requires identity verification, and users must be 18 or older in most operating states, with specific age requirements for Massachusetts (21+) and Nebraska (19+).
Underdog's promotion allows users to "Play $5 to net $50 in bonuses" using the promo code NYPOST. Bonus funds typically remain valid for 14 days and usually have a 1x playthrough requirement. Underdog operates in many states, with varying age requirements (18+, 19+ in AL/NE, 21+ in AZ/MA/VA) and specific state exclusions.
DFS is legal in most U.S. states, though availability can vary by platform and contest type. Deposits and withdrawals are typically processed instantly through methods like debit cards, PayPal, Venmo, or online banking.