Skip to main content
Back to learn
Beginner guide

How to Play

From creating an account to cashing out winnings — here’s everything you need to get started on Rocket DFS in five minutes.

Five steps to your first contest

  1. Create a free account

    Sign up with Google or email. All accounts start with a balance you can use to enter contests during our free-play beta period.

  2. Choose a game format

    Rocket DFS runs six different contest formats — from a single NFL game bingo card to a full-season team-pick league. Pick the one that matches how much time and strategy you want to invest.

  3. Enter a contest

    Open a contest, review the entry fee and prize pool, then submit your picks before the lock time. Most formats lock at kickoff; Draft Baron locks when the commissioner takes the stage.

  4. Scoring runs automatically

    Once your contest starts, scores update from real game and box-score data. You don't need to watch a stat tracker or enter results manually.

  5. Winnings credited to your wallet

    After a contest settles, winnings drop straight into your Rocket DFS wallet. Deposit, contest payouts, and future withdrawals all flow through one place.

Common questions

What is daily fantasy sports (DFS)?
DFS is a skill-based prediction game where you enter a paid or free contest, make picks or assemble a lineup before a real sporting event, and compete against other entrants for a share of the prize pool. Unlike season-long leagues, each contest is self-contained — you're not managing a team over months.
Do I need to know football to play?
It depends on the format. Draft Baron and Free Agent Frenzy reward knowledge of draft prospects and free agents. Team Fantasy and Stat Rankings benefit from knowing current offensive lines and usage rates. Fantasy Bingo and Block Pools are the most accessible — they're designed so casual fans can win against veterans.
What is a lock time?
Picks lock before the real-world event begins. Once locked, you can't change them. For game-based contests (Bingo, Block Pools), the lock is kickoff. For season-based formats (Team Fantasy), each week's pick locks at your team's first game of the week.
How are payouts structured?
Each contest displays its prize pool and payout structure before you enter. Most contests pay a percentage of the prize pool to the top finishers (e.g. top 3 in a GPP). Rocket DFS takes a 10% platform rake — you can find the full breakdown on the Pricing page.
Is Rocket DFS available in my state?
Daily fantasy sports are regulated differently by state. Some states restrict or prohibit paid DFS. Check the eligibility page for the current state-by-state list before depositing real money.

Keep reading