> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.funstake.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.funstake.io/how-funstake-works/game-sessions/session-lifecycle.md).

# Session Lifecycle

A typical game session progresses through several stages:

1. **Starting a Session:**
   * A new session begins at a specified block timestamp, initiating the countdown based on the set duration.
2. **Depositing:**
   * Users can deposit their assets into the session, earning tickets calculated as:\
     `User ticket(weight) = deposit amount * remaining time until pool finish`
   * The earlier a user deposits, the better their chances of winning due to the time-weighted ticket calculation.
   * **User Participation Storage Cost:**
     * When making a deposit for the first time in a session, users must cover a small storage cost, typically around **0.0025 NEAR**.
     * This fee is used to store user data for the session and prevents potential abuse like **“Million Small Deposits”** attacks.
     * If a user decides to cash out before the session ends, the storage cost is **refunded**.
3. **Boosting Chances:**
   * Users can add more deposits during the session to boost their chances of winning, with the ticket calculation remaining the same.
4. **Cashing Out:**
   * Users can withdraw their deposited assets at any time before the session ends. Cashing out removes the user from the session and updates the total tickets and amount accordingly.
5. **Finalizing a Session:**
   * At the end of the session, anyone can call the **finalize\_session** function to determine the winner(s) based on the generated random number.
   * The reward is calculated, and the session data is updated to reflect the final state.
6. **Claiming Rewards:**
   * The selected winner(s) can claim their rewards, while all other participants can reclaim their initial deposits. The **isClaimed** flag ensures that users cannot claim more than once.

By structuring the game sessions with clear rules and transparent data, FunStake ensures a fair and engaging experience for all participants. This approach not only builds trust but also enhances the overall user experience.