IGT probably is discontinuing the $200 strike because the design of the new machine doesn't allow room to display it. If you can't display it, then how does one even know it exists?

The new machines are designed to be all glitz with lots of profit for the casino. Even though the old machines were much more exciting to play, I understand that IGT had to separate the strike dispenser from the main slot mechanism to avoid the constant problems of strike dispensing jamming.

What IGT can change is how the slot machine determines that you won a strike. The silver strike symbol in the third position has to go. Thats the future.