Token resolvers (DTCG)
Official DTCG v2025.10 mechanism to handle the `mode × theme × brand × device` combinatorics via a `.resolver.json` file pointing to token sets activated by context. Standardizes what Tokens Studio modes, Terrazzo modes and Style Dictionary themes each did differently before 2025.
Strengths
- Avoids exhaustive duplication, inheritance with 1 base + targeted overrides
- Official DTCG spec since Oct 2025, vendors aligning (Terrazzo full support, Style Dictionary v6 target)
- Compatible with DTCG resolvers on the Figma Variables side (native modes)
Limitations
- High conceptual complexity, learning curve for teams used to flat token files
- Style Dictionary v5.x does not yet support the module, wait for v6 or use Terrazzo
Best for
- Multi-brand DS (parent brand + 3-5 sub-brands retail / streaming)
- Multi-device DS (smart TV + mobile + tablet + web)