Contenders is Waged War’s competitive Lineup mode that groups players into like contests. You build a Lineup, choose your payout type, and then your Lineup is scored against others placed into the same contest. Contenders provides two main ways to win — finishing top of your group, or hitting the guaranteed payout for a winning Lineup.

Quick steps to play

1. Pick projections: Choose 2–6 player projections from the available sports.
2. Predict More or Less: For each player projection, select whether the player will go More or Less than the listed projection.
3. Choose payout style: Select a higher-risk, higher-reward option (Power) or a lower-risk option (Protected) that still pays for partial correctness.
4. Submit: Confirm your entry fee and lock your Lineup in.
5. Get placed in a group: Your Lineup is matched with other users of similar Lineup type and experience level.
6. Win: Cash out by winning your group or by achieving the minimum guaranteed payout for your Lineup selection.

How you can win

Contenders offers two complementary payout paths:

• Top of your group: Finish first among the users in your matched group to win the group prize.
• Winning Lineup (Minimum Guarantee): If your picks hit according to the payout table, you earn the guaranteed Lineup payout regardless of group placement.

Payout types & examples

We support two payout styles:

• Power (All-or-nothing style): Higher multipliers when every pick hits. Best for players seeking big payouts on perfect Lineups.
• Protected (Partial payout style): Lower top multiplier but still pays out when you get most picks correct — ideal if you want more ways to win.

Group matchmaking

Groups are created automatically and consider: Lineup size, payout style, submit time, and experience level. Groups are filled on a first-come, first-served basis — submitting earlier typically places you into a filled contest faster.

Scoring basics

Each pick is scored against the official event statistics. Tied or pushed projections, DNPs, and other special outcomes are handled per our scoring rules. If users tie for first in a group, the group prize may be split according to contest rules unless a single winning Protected Lineup exists.

Where Contenders is available

Contenders is available in jurisdictions where Waged War’s real-money contests are authorized. Availability can vary by state and by age requirement. Check your account region in the app or our Where to Play page for the current list of eligible states.

Account setup & verification

1. Sign up and provide name, DOB, and address to confirm eligibility.
2. Verify your identity when prompted (supports faster withdrawals and access to promotions).
3. Fund your account to start creating Contenders Lineups.

Responsible play & limits

Play responsibly — set deposit and session limits in your account settings. If you or someone you know needs help with problem gaming, visit our Responsible Gaming page or contact local support resources.

Common questions