Sony Computer Entertainment has been beaten down lately, no doubt about it.

Ever since the entertainment giant was forced to take the PlayStation Network and Qriocity services down on April 20th following malicious attacks by cybercriminals and so-called ‘hacktivists’ (activist hackers), Sony Computer Entertainment has been receiving a beating.

Damage to the company’s image and credibility, financial losses, worldwide coverage putting a spotlight on the debacle, government heat and hearings, and tens of millions of angry customers becoming increasingly vocal about their displeasure with the service all add up to an incredibly tense and uncomfortable time for Sony Computer Entertainment.

In the face of all of this, Sony Computer Entertainment has tried to put on a brave face and keep us updated as to the rebuilding of the network, the enhancements to the service’s security and stability, made a promise or two, and come clean about the severity of the network’s breach.

The last blow came recently, when a Sony Computer Entertainment Japan spokesperson was misquoted while speaking about when the company expects the PlayStation Network to resume services, forcing Sony Computer Entertainment America’s Patrick Seybold to make a correction, disappointing gamers and increasing their ire.

Today, only minutes ago, Seybold released another statement and update on the PlayStation Blog. Very simply, he apologises (as he has been made to do on several occasions over the last few weeks), but the statement’s simplicity seems to instil a greater sense of sincerity.

The update reads:

“I know you all want to know exactly when the services will be restored. At this time, I can’t give you an exact date, as it will likely be at least a few more days. We’re terribly sorry for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience as we work through this process.”

It’s unfortunate that Seybold ‘promises’ that the PlayStation Network will be up in “a few more days,” but I’m personally struck by the sincerity and straightforward nature of the wording.

At this stage, we’re probably all just keen to put this whole fiasco behind us to get down to the important business of gaming. Once PSN resumes services, I’ll just be happy to continue using the network again.