Breaking the Bank

Breaking the Bank is a short interactive game where the player helps a character named Henry Stickmin attempt to break into a bank. The game is presented as a series of choices, each leading to different outcomes. The main objective is to select tools or methods that Henry might use to enter the bank, and the result of each choice is shown immediately. Most choices lead to failure, but part of the appeal is discovering all the possible outcomes.

Gameplay system

The game begins with Henry standing outside the bank. The player is then presented with several options, such as digging, using explosives, or disguising. Each selection triggers a short animation that shows the consequences. The humor of the game comes from the fact that nearly every attempt fails in unexpected ways. There is no traditional winning condition, and instead the purpose is to explore all scenarios. By experimenting with each option, players reveal the different animated sequences that make up the entire game.

Features and design

Breaking the Bank is the first installment in the Henry Stickmin series. Its design is simple, but it establishes the formula that later games expand on. The structure is built around trial and error, with no penalty for failure. Players can quickly restart and try different options until they have seen all possible outcomes. This makes the game accessible and easy to complete, while still offering replay value through its variety of choices.

Main elements of Breaking the Bank include:

·         Multiple choice-based interactions

·         Short animated outcomes for each attempt

·         No penalties for failure and instant retries

·         Introduction to the Henry Stickmin character

·         Foundation for future installments in the series

Community and legacy

Although Breaking the Bank is a small project, it attracted attention for its unique format. Players shared their experiences online, discussing the funniest failures and encouraging others to try different paths. This community response contributed to the development of sequels, each one expanding the mechanics and adding more complexity. The original game is still remembered as the starting point for a series that later included well-known titles like Escaping the Prison and Stealing the Diamond.

Breaking the Bank demonstrates how a simple concept can establish a long-running series. Its reliance on choice, humor, and animated sequences set it apart from other interactive games of its time. While the game itself is brief, it remains important as the introduction of Henry Stickmin and as the foundation for future projects. Players return to it not for challenge but for the curiosity of exploring every possible result.