After the closing ceremonies it was time to make my way back to Houston. Due to road construction in Huntsville, I decided to take a rather indirect route down I-35 through Waco, picking up Texas Highway 6 and later Texas Highway 105, FM 1774, and Texas Highway 249.

But wait a minute, why not check out a location on Pinball Map that hasn’t been updated in two years? Especially since it is now on the way?

And that’s exactly what I did. The place is called Truelove Bar. After an ID check and being asked if I had any weapons, I was admitted. The bar was nearly empty, not surprising for a Sunday evening in Waco now that I think about it. The game was a title I’ve never played, Sharkey’s Shootout (Stern, 2000). As an added bonus, the game pricing at least appeared to be the original 50¢ for 1 and $1 for 3 setting from that year.

I insert the first two quarters. “CREDITS 1/2” and then “CREDITS 1”. I insert the next two quarters. “CREDITS 1 1/2” and then… “CREDITS 2”. Well, I’ve paid for two games in advance. At least I got credit for all four coins.

I didn’t make the high score board, but I feel like my top score of 175.7M+ was a decent showing. I wound up playing five games for my $1. Not too bad, I say.

The rest of the trip into Houston was relatively uneventful. It was dark by the time I passed through Plantersville and by the Texas Renaissance Festival grounds, and I got home late. I was exhausted, but happy for the overall experience despite my disappointing tournament finish. More on that in the recap.