PrizePicks to pull pick'em games from New York this week

PrizePicks has confirmed it is pulling its pick’em DFS games from New York this week following a regulatory change announced in October.

The operator will now offer its free-to-play games in the Empire State following the decision from the New York State Gaming Commission to ban pick ‘em-style games.

The contests, which some argue mimic sports betting, allow users to effectively place prop bets with operators that do not hold sports betting licenses.

In an email sent to customers, PrizePicks confirmed that from 11.59pm ET on Wednesday, February 14, the firm would cease to offer traditional pick ‘em games.

PrizePicks added that new free-to-play contests for real cash prizes will be available starting at 7am ET on Thursday, February 15.

In the email, PrizePicks said: “We are writing to you with an important update. Due to recent updates in the licensing rules enacted by the New York State Gaming Commission, we must pause our paid contests in the state.

“In the meantime, we are pleased to announce that in these new contests you will be able to put your sports knowledge to the test, climb up the leaderboard by winning entries, and collect cash prizes – all without spending any money.”

The company stressed that customers could still access their PrizePicks accounts and withdraw funds that are held within them.

Additionally, PrizePicks said it was in the process of securing a license in the state to bring its pick ‘em games back to customers.

The email continued: “We are in the process of applying for a permanent license to operate in New York under the states’ new rules.

“We look forward to resuming paid contests in New York as soon as possible, including introducing new fantasy games with larger prizes and more exciting ways to play and win.”

New York is one of several states that have made moves to clamp down on pick’em-style games, including Florida, Wyoming, and Ohio.