Have you noticed that the new machines have a different payout!! Now you get 2 credits for three bars and 5 for one cherry. This makes the strikes cost much more because you don't get the 10 credits for the 3 bars, which gives you more playing time. The Nuggett in Sparks has one of each. The rooster is the old machine.

Also, I walked up to the cage by the rooster and he sold me 20 strikes for $10 each. That made the $200, a reasonable price.