A game played on the Instagram platform, this activity involves two or more individuals rapidly exchanging a single, often pre-determined, emoji back and forth in a direct message thread. The rapid, repetitive exchange simulates the back-and-forth motion of the sport it references. For example, two users might continuously send the table tennis paddle emoji () to each other.
The appeal of this digital interaction lies in its simplicity and the opportunity for lighthearted engagement. It provides a low-pressure method for users to connect, maintain contact, or signal availability for conversation. Historically, similar digital games have served as icebreakers or casual means of communication in various online settings, evolving with the features and affordances of different platforms. It offers a quick and entertaining way to interact without requiring significant time investment or demanding in-depth conversation.
