Microsoft issues statement regarding PSN outage

A Microsoft representative has issued a statement to Electronic Theatre regarding the ongoing PSN issues, which are plaguing users worldwide.

The representative of Microsoft's distribution network said they felt bad for gamers, but at the same time, expects it to be of some benefit to Xbox Live.

“Of course it’s regretful that Sony is encountering issues at such a busy time, and Microsoft takes no joy in the problems gamers are having playing their favourite games online,” said the representative.

“That being said, we are expecting Microsoft’s robust online network to see an increase of traffic from those gamers who own both systems. Being able to play their games via the Xbox Live network could make all the difference for some gamers, and the Xbox Nations event will allow all of them to do just that – whether they have a Gold subscription or not.”

When asked if Microsoft would see an increase in sales of the Xbox 360 console or game titles, such as the recently released Portal 2 or Operation Flashpoint: Red River, due to the issues faced by PSN users, the representative refused to offer comment.

Microsoft's launched its Xbox Nations online event yesterday, which brings along a free Xbox Live weekend, and has various games, music and movies and avatar items on discount.

The Playstation Network has been down for more than 48 hours now, with Sony recently issuing a statement, which confirmed it has taken it offline due to an "external intrusion".