PSN restoration delayed, free games confirmed

Tuesday May 3rd – that’s the day first earmarked by Sony for the return of PSN. But as of today, Saturday May 7th, we’re still none the wiser as to when the service will be back online.

The service went down on April 20th.

Verifying the system security is vital for the process of restoration,” the latest update reads. Additional comprehensive system checks and testing are still required, and we must complete that process before bringing the systems online.

As you’ve heard us say, our utmost priorities are the security of the network and ensuring your data is safe.

"We won’t restore the services until we can test the system’s strength in these respects. When we held the press conference in Japan last week, based on what we knew, we expected to have the services online within a week. We were unaware of the extent of the attack on Sony Online Entertainment servers, and we are taking this opportunity to conduct further testing of the incredibly complex system.

However, in better news for European PlayStation gamers the company has outlined the first details of its ‘Welcome Back’ plan.

PS3 owners will be entitled to two free games from a list of five, presumably in the form of a digital download. PSP owners will be able to select two of four games. The eligible titles have not yet been confirmed.