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#design#archetypes#testing

Archetypes as level design

Why intent-aware mutation generation beats “mutate everything”.

Mutation testing has a targeting problem

Most tools treat code like a flat surface: every line gets the same attention. That’s how you end up with thousands of mutations that don’t change meaningful behavior.

Intent makes better mutants

MutantZero classifies functions into a small set of archetypes. Each archetype suggests different mutation operators, risk heuristics, and review UX.

Examples:

  • Guard: focus on boundary conditions, permission checks, validation logic
  • Transformer: focus on mapping rules, string and array transforms
  • DTO: skip (pure data carriers)

The benefit

Fewer mutants, more signal — and a workflow that feels like you’re playing a game with a clear objective.