Best DFS Sites: Daily Fantasy Sports & Pick'em Legal States
Well before legal sports betting swept its way across the United States, gaming enthusiasts were putting their money on the line in a different fashion. Daily Fantasy sports might not have the same luster it did prior to widespread sports betting legalization, but it still has a strong foundation across the majority of U.S. states.
Best Legal DFS Sites and Where to Play
| Operator | DFS | Pick 'Em | Legal States |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thrillzz | ❌ | ✅ | Everywhere except AL, GA, ID, IN, IA, KY, LA, MI, MN, MS, NV, OH, SC, WA |
| Betr Picks | ❌ | ✅ | AL, AK, AR, CA, FL, DC, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MN, NE, NM, NC, ND, OK, OR, RI, SC, SD, TX, UT, VT, VA, WV, WI, WY |
| OwnersBox | ✅ | ✅ | Everywhere except AZ, DE, HI, CT, ID, IN, IA, LA, MI, MS, MT, NV, NY, WA |
| ParlayPlay | ❌ | ✅ | AL, AK, AR, CA, DC, GA, IL, KS, KY, MN, NE, NM, NC, ND, OK, OR, RI, SC, SD, TX, UT, VA, WV, WI, WY |
| Boom Fantasy | ❌ | ✅ | AK, AR, CA, DC, FL, GA, IL, KY, MN, NE, NM, NC, ND, OK, OR, RI, SC, SD, TX, UT, VA, WI |
| ThriveFantasy | ❌ | ✅ | AK, AR, CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, IL, KS, KY, MD, MA, MI, MN, NE, NM, NY, NC, ND, OK, OR, RI, SC, SD, TX, UT, WV, WI, WY |
What is Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS)?
Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) is a type of online game where players create virtual teams of real-life athletes and compete against other players based on the statistical performance of those athletes in actual sports events. Unlike traditional fantasy sports, which typically run for an entire season, DFS contests are condensed into a single day or a short period.
Sports betting, on the other hand, involves placing wagers on the outcome of specific sporting events or aspects of them, such as who will win or the total points scored. It is more about predicting results, and the payout is determined by the odds set by the bookmaker.
Legally, DFS is often classified as a game of skill, which allows it to operate in many regions where sports betting might be restricted. Sports betting is considered gambling and is subject to stricter regulations.
While both involve an element of strategy and analysis, DFS engages players in the broader performance of individual athletes across multiple games, whereas sports betting is focused on the outcomes of specific events, with a greater emphasis on luck and chance.
DFS vs. Pick 'Em
States view Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) and Pick 'Em games differently from a legal perspective primarily due to the distinction between games of skill and games of chance, which is a key factor in gambling regulations.
Simply put, Daily Fantasy games usually require players to select a player or group of players whose performance is summarized using fantasy scoring. For example, a wide receiver might earn one point for a reception, and six points for a touchdown.
Pick 'Em games also focus on player outcomes, but users aren't building fantasy rosters – they're deciding on which side of the outcome the player result will land. Most Pick 'Em games center around over/under plays, where the participant is tasked with predicting whether a player will finish above or below the operator-determined total.
Games of Skill vs. Games of Chance
DFS is often classified as a game of skill because it requires participants to research and analyze players, matchups, and statistics to build a competitive team. The outcome in DFS depends largely on the player's ability to choose athletes who will perform well based on real-world data. Because of this emphasis on skill, many states consider DFS to be distinct from traditional gambling, allowing it to be legal where games of chance might not be.
Pick 'Em games, depending on structure, can be viewed as either a game of skill or chance. If the game involves predicting winners without any other variables, it might be seen as simpler and more chance-based, especially if spreads or other betting elements are involved. Some states view these as closer to traditional sports betting, where the outcome is less about skill and more about the unpredictability of the games, thus classifying it as gambling.
Legal and Regulatory Frameworks
Because DFS requires significant skill, some states have created specific legal frameworks or exemptions that allow DFS to operate legally. These states often argue that the participant's knowledge and decision-making play a substantial role in the outcome, making it more of a skill-based competition.
Pick 'Em games, particularly those involving point spreads or similar betting elements, can fall into a grey area. If a Pick 'Em game is structured in a way that closely resembles traditional sports betting, it might be subject to the same gambling laws. This can lead to stricter regulations or outright bans in states where sports betting is not legal.
The legal distinction often hinges on whether the game is perceived to be driven more by skill or chance. States that differentiate between these factors may allow DFS while regulating or prohibiting Pick 'Em games depending on their design and similarity to sports betting.
(Pick 'Em refers to contests where players compete against operators by picking the correct outcome of a prop-style matchup for cash prizes.)
Legal DFS States
Alabama
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: No
August 2023 saw a major shift in the pick 'em landscape in Alabama, with both Underdog Sports and PrizePicks changing their formats at the urging of the state's Attorney General. Both companies removed the option for players to make straight over/under selections in favor of "combo" offerings, which require two or more athlete prop-style picks (and, by definition, fall out of "pick 'em" consideration.)
Alabama was also one of the first states to begin hosting Underdog's peer-to-peer game, where players compete against each other rather than against the house. DFS is the only game in town for Alabamans, with Alabama sports betting and online casino not yet legal (though bills including legislation were introduced in 2024).
Alaska
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: Yes
Alaskans don't have an easy or quick path to sports betting, with the nearest legal region (Washington) more than 2,400 miles away. The northernmost state in the U.S. does, however, allow residents to participate in both DFS and Pick 'Em contests; the legal age for both is 18+, and no movement is in place as of now to curb Pick 'Em games within state lines.
Arizona
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: No
The Arizona sports betting scene is one of the most vibrant in the U.S., but the same can't be said for its DFS and Pick 'Em landscape. While the state does permit Daily Fantasy operators to ply their trade, the Arizona Department of Gaming put a stop to Pick 'Em-style games in November 2023, following the lead of several other prominent states.
Arizona doesn't offer online casino gaming at the moment.
Arkansas
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: No
Arkansas wasn't part of the first wave of states to ban PrizePicks and Underdog Fantasy from operating Pick 'Em contests, but it acted quickly once the calendar flipped to 2024. Arkansas sports betting regulators issued cease-and-desist letters to both companies in February, leaving the state with sports wagering and DFS on its gaming menu.
California
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: Yes
While we might still be years away from California sports betting being a reality – and even longer for online casino implementation – residents of The Golden State still have plenty of mobile gaming options at their disposal.
Both Daily Fantasy and Pick 'Em formats are permitted in California; that might change, however, with the state's attorney general still reviewing whether Pick 'Em games should be considered a form of illegal gambling. The California Indian Nations Gaming Association wrote a letter to AG Rob Bonta on Jan. 31 outlining the case for banning Pick 'Em games.
Colorado
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: Limited
The simplicity of the Colorado sports betting scene runs in stark contrast to the chaos that is the state's stance on Pick 'Em contests.
While regular Daily Fantasy is perfectly legal in Colorado, players looking to beat the house on Underdog or PrizePicks will have a much tougher time of it thanks to strict regulations on what those companies can offer. Underdog offers paid contests, but only fantasy scores can be used, and participants much choose at least four players within the same contest.
PrizePicks is even less enticing to players seeking profit: Their contests are all free to play, and involve making successful picks over a period of time, with players able to "unlock special rewards to earn cash prizes" should they build a winning streak.
Connecticut
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: No
While Connecticut sports betting and Daily Fantasy perfectly legal, Pick 'Em games are a hard no-go. The only option available to Connecticut residents is PrizePicks Streak, in which players attempt to make correct selections over a number of consecutive days in order to be eligible to win cash prizes.
Those looking for more action outside the betting or DFS sphere can take heart, however, as Connecticut online casinos are fully legal.
DC
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: Yes
There was a time not long ago when gaming aficionados would have avoided DC. But between the departure of ill-fated sportsbook GambetDC, the emergence of FanDuel as a sensational replacement, the introduction of DC sports betting competition and fully legal DFS and Pick 'Em options, things have never looked better for gaming in the U.S. capital.
Delaware
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: No
Delaware's rules on Daily Fantasy and Pick 'Em formats are quite clear: DFS is permitted within state borders, while Pick 'Em games are not. Neither Underdog nor PrizePicks even offer free or modified Pick 'Em formats in Delaware. Players looking to add to their sports viewing experience do have options with Delaware sports betting and online casino.
Florida
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: No
The elimination of pay-to-play Pick 'Em games in Florida remains one of the industry's biggest stories of 2024. The Florida Gaming Control Commission ordered all Pick 'Em providers to cease operations as of March 1, and they complied – though some promptly returned to action in the Sunshine State with peer-to-peer replacements.
Florida sports betting remains active via Hard Rock Bet.
Georgia
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: Yes
Georgia sports betting might still be years away from becoming a reality, but sports game thrill seekers still have Daily Fantasy and Pick 'Em options in the interim. It helps that PrizePicks is based in Atlanta – and with neighbouring states like Florida fully out on player-vs-house Pick 'Em, Georgia could see a flood of players crossing the border to play.
Illinois
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: Yes
Illinois sports betting produced the third-highest handle of any state in 2023 – and with a gaming appetite that large, you know that Daily Fantasy and Pick 'Em contests are wildly popular there, as well. Illinois offers both without restrictions, and likely sees cross-border visits from Iowa and Missouri, neither of which allow pay-to-play Pick 'Em games.
Indiana
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: Yes
Between The Pacers' surprising deep playoff run and Caitlin Clark-mania enveloping the WNBA (and the basketball world at large), Indiana has become a veritable sports hotbed in 2024. That much is evident in how Indiana sports betting has fared – and with both DFS and Pick 'Em games permitted in-state, players have a bevy of options at their disposal.
Iowa
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: No
Iowa offers standard Daily Fantasy products to its residents, with all of the biggest names in the industry active within the state. Pick 'Em players and operators, on the other hand, are out of luck, with only limited free-to-play games available. Iowa sports betting is completely legal, and has been since the middle of 2019.
Kansas
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: No
Kansas is one of a handful of states that previously allowed DFS Pick 'Em games, but doesn't anymore. The Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission sent out a half-dozen cease-and-desist letters to Pick 'Em operators in February 2024, prompting a full-scale shutdown of the game format. Kansas sports betting, however, is still very much active.
Kentucky
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: Yes
It won't come as much of a surprise to know that one of the most college sports-mad regions in the country offers a wide variety of sports gaming options. Not only is Kentucky sports betting legal – and that includes wagering on college player props – but players can also participate in both Daily Fantasy and Pick 'Em games across the state.
Louisiana
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: No
Residents of The Bayou State have poured nearly $7 billion into Louisiana sports betting all-time – so you know they love their contests. But while Louisianans have full access to a wide variety of Daily Fantasy Sports contests, they aren't permitted to take part in Pick 'Em games. Available offerings are limited to the free-to-play variety.
Maine
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: No
The 2023 NFL season was a disappointing one for Maine Pick 'Em operators, who were forced to shutter operations ahead of Maine sports betting going live in November. If that weren't enough, Underdog Fantasy – one of the biggest names in the space – was handed nearly $400,000 in fines from the Maine Gambling Control Unit for offering illegal games.
Maryland
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: No
The Maryland Lottery allows for DFS contests within the state, but Pick 'Em games are expressly prohibited. This led to a 2023 holiday season bummer for DraftKings, which learned Dec. 22 that its Pick6 Fantasy Game, originally allowed by state regulators, actually violated Maryland gaming rules. Maryland sports betting, on the other hand, is fully legal.
Massachusetts
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: No
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission is one of the more active sports betting regulatory bodies in the U.S. – and it blitzed Pick 'Em operators earlier this year, sending out 10 cease-and-desist letters. Major players Underdog and PrizePicks preemptively changed to free or peer-to-peer games to conform. Massachusetts sports betting is active and thriving.
Michigan
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: No
The Michigan sports betting landscape is one of the most vibrant in the country – no surprise given the state's rabid sports interest. And the Michigan online casino scene is also thriving, providing a nice boost to the government coffers. But while traditional DFS games are open to everyone in Michigan aged 18 and older, Michigan was one of the first to ban Pick 'Ems.
Minnesota
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: Yes
The bad news for residents of The North Star State: Minnesota sports betting and online casinos are not yet legal, and there's no guarantee that will change in 2025. But Minnesotans do have a couple of ways to enhance their sports viewing: Daily Fantasy Sports is legal, and Pick 'Em contests are also permitted inside state borders, at least for the time being.
Mississippi
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: No
Wagering and gaming enthusiasts in Mississippi are more limited than most. Mississippi sports betting is retail-only, making it one of only six states to enter 2025 with retail betting but no mobile wagering. And while DFS players have access to all of the top sites in the industry, the state expressly forbids Pick 'Em games that mimic sports betting.
Missouri
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: No
The Show Me State hasn't shown its residents much of anything when it comes to betting and gaming options. The Missouri sports betting prognosis for 2025 is unclear, while online casino doesn't appear close. And with Pick 'Em games prohibited, Daily Fantasy represents the only major sports gaming option available to Missourians at present.
Nebraska
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: Yes
While sports-mad adults wait for Nebraska sports betting to eventually get off the ground, they can spend to their heart's content on both Daily Fantasy and Pick 'Em games. Nebraska is one of 30 states where DraftKings operates its Pick6 fantasy game, and both Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks operate their pay-to-play games there.
New Hampshire
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: Yes
While a significant number of states have distanced themselves from Pick 'Em contests, New Hampshire is looking at growing the number of operators to offer the format. The latest: PrizePicks, which secured a license in early August to operate in New Hampshire. In addition to Pick 'Em and DFS, New Hampshire sports betting continues to grow in popularity.
New Jersey
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: No
New Jersey sports betting is one of the most prolific markets in the U.S. – not surprising, as it was the driving force behind the repeal of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act which paved the way for legal sports wagering outside Nevada. But while sports betting and Daily Fantasy are both allowed, Pick 'Em games are banned in New Jersey.
The Garden State does, however, provide a little extra for those looking for a gambling rush. NJ online casino is legal, and generates considerable tax revenue for the state.
New Mexico
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: Yes
As one of six states that offers retail-only options, a limited New Mexico sports betting scene probably doesn't appeal to everyone. Fortunately for those who prefer mobile action to in-person games, New Mexico does offer both Daily Fantasy and Pick 'Em contests across the best mobile apps in the industry. Players must be 18+ to participate.
New York
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: Yes
Some state legislative pictures are murkier than others when it comes to what is and isn't allowed on the DFS and Pick 'Em front. The New York Gaming Commission agreed in early 2024 to ban player prop games from fantasy operators; PrizePicks left the state in February but returned shortly after with a free-to-play alternative.
Underdog, on the other hand, has continued to offer its usual menu of games; as of Aug. 29, New York isn't on an ineligible state list for any of the company's current game formats – and that includes all Pick 'Em contests.
New York sports betting regulations are much clearer, with operators taking in more handle and revenue than in any other state in the country.
North Carolina
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: Yes
It has been quite a year for sports fans in The Tar Heel State – most notably due to the launch of North Carolina sports betting to a frenzy of interest. But sports wagering isn't the only game in town, with North Carolina residents also free to play both Daily Fantasy and Pick 'Em games (though PrizePicks doesn't presently offer Pick 'Em contests there).
North Dakota
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: Yes
Neither of the Dakotas offer online sports betting at the moment (it's retail-only for both), but there's still plenty for sports fans in the area to gravitate toward from a gaming perspective. North Dakotans have their choice of completely legal Daily Fantasy Sports contests, while Pick 'Em games are also permitted within the state.
Ohio
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: No
Ohio residents looking to add Pick 'Ems to their betting wish list will need to travel to another state. While Ohio sports betting has skyrocketed in popularity since going live Jan. 1, 2023, the state prohibits any Pick 'Em-style game that resembles sports betting. Free-to-play pick streak or peer-to-peer games, including Best Ball drafts, are legal, as is standard DFS.
Oklahoma
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: Yes
Oklahoma sports betting might very well be years away, but at least residents of The Sooner State still have plenty to choose from in the fun and games department. Daily Fantasy enthusiasts can participate in any number of contests (including those featuring players from their local NCAA football teams), while Pick 'Em games are fully legal, as well.
Oregon
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: Yes
The gamification of sports is strong in Oregon, where fans have plenty of options to enhance their viewing experience. Oregon sports betting is thriving, Daily fantasy has enjoyed sustained popularity and success in the Pacific Northwest, and by offering Pick 'Em games surrounded by states where they're banned, Oregon has a regional monopoly on the format.
Pennsylvania
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: No
As one of five states to have racked up more than $30 billion in handle all-time, Pennsylvania sports betting is in a great place. But PA sports fans looking for solid alternatives to sports wagering don't have as many options as residents of other states. Daily Fantasy Sports are a full go, but Pennsylvania residents don't have access to traditional Pick 'Em games.
Fortunately, PA online casino is legal and available, which softens the blow for gamblers.
Rhode Island
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: Yes
If you're planning some gaming during your next visit to the smallest state in the union, you had better bring a big bankroll. Rhode Island sports betting was one of the first markets to open up in the post-PASPA era, and has a strong foundation in place. And Rhode Island also provides players with plenty of Daily Fantasy and Pick 'Em options.
South Carolina
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: Yes
If you're visiting the Carolinas and you're looking to dive into the sports betting pool, North Carolina is your only option. But both states host a variety of other games and contests to participate in depending on your personal preference. South Carolina is home to a full compliment of DFS options and also offers legal Pick 'Em contests.
South Dakota
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: Yes
As mentioned earlier, you aren't going to find any mobile sports betting opportunities in either North or South Dakota. But like North Dakota, residents of South Dakota still have sports contests to participate in beyond brick-and-mortar sports wagering: Daily Fantasy competitions are available across the state, as are Pick 'Em formats.
Tennessee
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: No
Tennessee sports betting has been wildly successful, which probably makes it easier for legislators to justify not having traditional Pick 'Em games available. Tennessee residents aged 18+ are permitted to take part in Daily Fantasy Sports contests, but Pick 'Em formats are limited to peer-to-peer or free-to-play contests.
Texas
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: Yes
The eventual launch of Texas sports betting will send shockwaves through the industry – but with the expected launch date still unknown, residents of The Lone Star State will have to settle for other forms of sports gaming. Fortunately for millions of Texans, both Daily Fantasy Sports contests and Pick 'Em games are offered by a wide variety of operators.
Utah
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: Yes
We might never see legal Utah sports betting, but that doesn't mean residents can't add a little extra fun to their sports fandom. The state's Daily Fantasy Sports offering provides a strong alternative to sports wagering, and Utah also permits all forms of Pick 'Em games offered by notable operators like Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks.
Vermont
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: Limited
Vermont residents can play Pick 'Em contests offered all operators across the state – but there's an important condition. According to the Underdog Fantasy rules page, Pick 'Ems in Vermont are only valid if fantasy points are the lone stat type used in the contest. Fortunately for players, there are no such restrictions on Vermont sports betting or DFS.
Virginia
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: Yes
Residents of Old Dominion: Need something to quench your thirst for action beyond Virginia sports betting? You're well covered, between Daily Fantasy Sports and traditional Pick 'Em contests; Virginia was the first state to legalize the latter game format. But what's considered legal might change in 2025, with lawmakers looking to clarify the rules surrounding Pick 'Ems.
West Virginia
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: No
West Virginia lawmakers were among the first to send single-player Pick 'Em operators packing, requiring these companies to leave the space in 2022. Some have returned to the state, but are only offering either peer-to-peer games requiring multiple plays or free-to-participate contests.
West Virginia sports betting, on the other hand, is legal – as is WV online casino gaming.
Wisconsin
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: Yes
It would be understandable for Wisconsinites to want a little more flexibility with regard to their online sports wagering experience. After all, mobile Wisconsin sports betting is presently limited to the immediate vicinity of the Onieda Casino. Thankfully, Wisconsin residents also have unfettered access to Daily Fantasy and Pick 'Em products online.
Wyoming
Daily Fantasy: Yes
Pick 'Em: Yes
Residents of The Equality State don't have it quite as good as other regions in the country when it comes to sports gaming options. While Wyoming sports betting is live and available via five legal operators, certain Pick 'Em operators only offer peer-to-peer contests. Daily Fantasy Sports, on the other hand, is provided without any major restrictions.
Best DFS Sites
Betr Picks
You likely know the sportsbook – now, get to know the Daily Fantasy product.
Betr Picks has established itself as one of the most straightforward DFS games on the market – and that carries considerable weight when it comes to attracting new players who don't want to be intimidated by the number of game types or formats on a given platform.
Simply choose two or more player outcomes, decide whether the player will come in over or under the Betr-established statistical benchmark (all over/unders are listed as .5s to avoid pushes), and if you're right, you win.
Signing up is simple: enter the Betr Picks promo code SBRBONUS and make a qualifying deposit, and you'll receive up to $250 in Betr Bucks within 72 hours of account activation.
Betr Picks operates in 23 states, along with Washington, D.C.
Terms and conditions apply.
Boom Fantasy
Differentiation is a big plus in the Daily Fantasy industry – and Boom Fantasy comes through for players with a wide variety of game types and formats:
- Toss-ups require players to decide which side of a player's stat projection they'd like to take, with payouts ranging from 3x your stake for two correct answers all the way up to a 20x payout for a perfect 5-0 performance.
- Longshots are for the dreamers – how else could you explain an offering that pays a whopping 40x your stake for just three correct answers? Of course, the odds on these plays are much longer (hence the format name).
- Favorites take participants in the opposite direction by offering much more likely outcomes at considerably lower payouts. A 5/5 showing pays just 3x – but you don't get closer to a sure thing in DFS than you do with these plays.
Boom Fantasy is available in 25 states and D.C.
Terms and conditions apply.
FanDuel Faceoff
If you're looking for a true departure from traditional Daily Fantasy games, you have to check out FanDuel Faceoff.
Here, you'll find games that test your motor skills (like Gronk Spike Cornhole or Atari Breakout Blitz), contests that exercise your brain (like boggle and Puzzle Pyramid) and competitions featuring classic card games (like Solitaire Sprint and Freecell).
FanDuel Faceoff also keeps things fun by ensuring that its peer-to-peer games feature matchups between players with similar skill levels – significantly lowering your chances of being unfairly overmatched.
Given how many people are already playing games on their phones, it seems like an easy call to try and turn those mad mobile skills into spending cash.
FanDuel Faceoff is active in 25+ states, including heavy hitters California and Texas.
100% deposit match up to $10 in Faceoff bonus cash with a $10 deposit. Users will be credited within 72 hours. Expires December 31, 2024.
OwnersBox
OwnersBox does a great job of keeping things simple for the user – and I'm not just talking about the player-friendly layout or sleek design.
While OwnersBox does veer significantly from the usual DFS setup, it does so in a way that is easy for its players to understand. The rules for weekly fantasy contests (in which users can swap players in and out while adhering to strict salary restrictions) are thoroughly explained, and "Lightning Lineups" (in which users are presented a pre-fab 3-person combo, and can continue passing until they get one they like) couldn't be a simpler format.
Using the OwnersBox promo code "SBRBONUS" at sign-up will earn new players a 100% deposit bonus to a max of $500.
OwnersBox is playable in 30+ states, along with Canada. It's also one of the only DFS companies operating in Ontario.
ParlayPlay
As the name suggests, ParlayPlay is all about rewarding customers who can correctly project multiple player outcomes across a single play. But it offers even more than that.
As our ParlayPlay review outlines, customers can play a "Hit-It" format which allows them to take a shot at identifying a performance range for multiple athletes. Think projecting Stephen Curry to score between 26 and 30 points, or Ezekiel Elliott to finish with between 11 and 15 rushing yards. Thread the needle, and you could be a big winner.
ParlayPlay also offers a pair of bonuses for newcomers. You'll get $5 just for signing up, along with a deposit match offered in the form of entry coupons up to $100.
ParlayPlay operates in 27 U.S. states, along with all areas of Canada excluding Ontario.
Terms and conditions apply.
Thrillzz
Not to be confused with Thrills, the gum that proudly proclaims that is "tastes like soap", Thrillzz is one of the top social daily fantasy and sportsbook operators out there.
Players can make picks on game lines, player props and game props without risking actual money. Thrillzz also features a hefty social component, with players able to form groups with friends and like-minded sports fans via the Thrillzz Squads feature.
Enter the Thrillzz promo code "SBRBONUS" upon sign-up and new customers will receive a no-deposit freebie of $3 in Sweeps coins, which can be used to enter promo sweepstakes for prize tickets that can be redeemed for money or items in the Thrillzz Shop. There's also an available deposit match of up to $25 in Sweeps Coins.
Thrillzz is live in a whopping 36 states, making it one of the most easily accessible Daily Fantasy games in the U.S.
Terms and conditions apply.
ThriveFantasy
For those who like the tried-and-true Daily Fantasy experience, ThriveFantasy provides the closest thing to a traditional DFS environment among the sites on this list.
Players can compete either in larger-field tournaments or 1-on-1 matchups, selecting 10 player props from a 20-player field and then watching the fantasy points add up. ThriveFantasy also offers league formats for those looking for a long-term commitment.
New customers can leave their Caps Lock button in the rearview and enter the ThriveFantasy promo code "sportsbookreview" to secure a 100% first-time deposit match of up to $250 – one of the most lucrative offers in the space. There's also a strong refer-a-friend program that can earn the referrer up to $250 depending on the size of the friend's deposit.
ThriveFantasy is currently available in 33 states.
Illegal DFS States
The nation-wide embrace of Daily Fantasy and Pick 'Em games has delighted sports fans – but not every state is on board. Here's a look at areas where you can't participate in DFS:
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Montana
- Nevada
- Washington
DFS in Canada
Outside the province of Ontario, Canadians are free to enjoy offerings from Daily Fantasy operators that allow players north of the border.
With Bill C-218 having amended the criminal to permit all provinces to offer regulated forms of Canada sports betting and Daily Fantasy, players can participate in DFS contests anywhere they're permitted.
Does that include Ontario? Yes – sort of.
DFS in Ontario
In tandem with the arrival of a legal Ontario sports betting framework in April 2022, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) categorized Daily Fantasy as a form of gambling rather than a game of skill (which is how DFS is defined in most regions).
While the province didn't ban these games outright, they did levy a series of restrictions that made the majority of North America's leading DFS operators balk. Companies hoping to run DFS sites in Ontario must pay a $100,000 registration fee, and are also taxed on a whopping 25% of their revenues – considerably more than any U.S. state.
If that weren't enough to dissuade prospective operators, all contests must be geo-restricted to participants within Ontario due to regulations preventing shared liquidity. While Ontario has a vibrant fantasy sports scene, seeing the audience limited so significantly is a major roadblock for Daily Fantasy companies.
Only one notable DFS site operates in Ontario as of September 2024: OwnersBox, whose main office is based in Toronto.
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