Gecode is a free, open-source C++ toolkit designed for building constraint-based systems—think scheduling algorithms, logistics optimizers, or puzzle solvers. It’s been around for a while (this article is from 2019), but it’s still a go-to for developers who need to model complex problems with strict rules. The Hacker News comments linked here likely dive into its technical merits, quirks, or real-world use cases.

Editor’s Note: While not breaking news, tools like Gecode are the unsung heroes of programming—enabling everything from airline scheduling to video game AI. For devs wrestling with optimization problems, it’s a reminder that robust, free solutions exist. The discussion around it (even years later) shows how niche tools can have lasting impact.