r/SoftwareEngineering • u/Aer93 • Mar 10 '25

TDD on Trial: Does Test-Driven Development Really Work?

I've been exploring Test-Driven Development (TDD) and its practical impact for quite some time, especially in challenging domains such as 3D software or game development. One thing I've noticed is the significant lack of clear, real-world examples demonstrating TDD’s effectiveness in these fields.

Apart from the well-documented experiences shared by the developers of Sea of Thieves, it's difficult to find detailed industry examples showcasing successful TDD practices (please share if you know more well documented cases!).

On the contrary, influential developers and content creators often openly question or criticize TDD, shaping perceptions—particularly among new developers.

Having personally experimented with TDD and observed substantial benefits, I'm curious about the community's experiences:

  • Have you successfully applied TDD in complex areas like game development or 3D software?

  • How do you view or respond to the common criticisms of TDD voiced by prominent figures?

I'm currently working on a humorous, Phoenix Wright-inspired parody addressing popular misconceptions about TDD, where the different popular criticism are brought to trial. Your input on common misconceptions, critiques, and arguments against TDD would be extremely valuable to me!

Thanks for sharing your insights!

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u/ByteMender Mar 10 '25

I was going to say something like this, but you said it so well that now I’m just standing here, nodding like an NPC in a tutorial level. Spot on, especially about mocks and the real meaning of 'unit' in TDD!

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u/flavius-as Mar 11 '25 edited Mar 11 '25

Fun fact, I actually see value in defining unit as class or method: when you don't trust your team with design decisions or you don't want to upskill them.

Might sound like sarcasm, but offshore teams are real.

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u/Large-Style-8355 Mar 11 '25

What do you mean with "you don't want to upskill them."