This study explores the emoji functions in Instagram comments on two video game trailers targeting different age groups, i.e. Elden Ring (adults, 17+) and Toca Boca World (children, 6-12), using Yus’ (2014) eight-function taxonomy. The exact age of the commenters cannot be confirmed. Therefore, it analyzes Instagram comments on two game trailers that are aimed at different age groups, not comments written by confirmed adults or children. A qualitative approach was employed, with data containing 70 Elden Ring and 79 Toca Boca World Instagram comments containing emojis. Key findings show that both comment sections used emojis as (A) Attitude signal, (B) Attitude intensity enhancer, (C) Illocutionary force modifier, (F) Emotion signal, (G) Parallel emotion signal, and (H) Emotion intensity enhancer. Meanwhile, (D) Humor and (E) Irony are only found in the Elden Ring comments because children lack the cognitive and emotional maturity to understand humor and irony. On the other hand, adults are more mature, making them able to sense the emotions and intentions behind humor and irony. The study also found single emojis performing two roles simultaneously and decorative emojis that do not fit into Yus’ (2014) taxonomy. This research shows how commenters use emojis differently (or similarly) when reacting to content for distinct age groups. Future studies could analyse emoji functions on other online platforms, compare more game trailers, or examine differences across gender or cultural background to see how these factors influence emoji use.