I built a VSCode extension that visualises your code navigation as a call tree — made for legacy codebase pain

Source: Dev.to

Overview

After spending over two years working on legacy Angular codebases, I kept losing track of where I was while jumping between files and functions. I couldn’t find a tool that remembered my navigation path visually, so I built one.

What is NavTrace?

NavTrace is a VS Code extension that creates a visual call‑tree in a side panel as you navigate your code. It’s an early version—still rough around the edges—but it solves a real, daily pain point for developers dealing with complex or legacy projects.

Adoption

• 53 downloads so far, achieved with zero marketing.
• The download count suggests that other developers share the same frustration.

Call for Feedback

I’d love honest feedback from anyone who works with complex or legacy codebases. Your thoughts will help shape the next iteration of NavTrace.

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