Flexibility and cost savings are said to be behind the move

Casino lovers across North America could be among those interested in recent developments in Maryland.

The state is said to be planning to start leasing video slots for its five casinos, according to the Maryland Reporter.

Behind the move is a desire for increased flexibility and the need to reduce costs, the news provider claimed.

Lottery director Stephen Martino is quoted as saying: "Designing a slots floor is an art, not a science.

"At Perryville and Ocean Downs, it's a question of supply and demand. Some machines are not doing well, and some are always busy."

It comes as the state acquired 4,719 machines to fill its rooms last month.

The machines are to be leased on a five-year $168 million contract, which was approved by the Board of Public Works in December.

In other news, the Resorts Casino Hotel in Atlantic City has been named as the Casino of the Year out of all New Jersey and Pennsylvania venues.