PSN issues due to 'external' factors affecting some PS3 and PS4 users (update)

Some PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 4 users are having trouble playing games on the PlayStation Network, according to the PSN status page.

Sony's most recent update, which came at 1:25 p.m. PDT today, says that PS3 and PS4 owners "may be experiencing issues related to launching certain games or game functionality." The issues, which are only affecting gaming and social features, are "due to factors external to PSN."

The update says Sony is "tracking the progress of the resolution of the issue." Earlier today, the company acknowledged reports of slower-than-usual PSN download speeds. There's no word on whether the two issues are related.

The network problems aren't affecting everybody. We had no problems loading up Destiny or a digital copy of Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition. In addition, we were able to check out friends' PSN profiles and edit our own. We'll keep you posted on Sony's progress.

Update: It's worth noting that players of some PS4 games have been dealing with issues throughout the week. The leaderboards for Batman: Arkham Knight have been down since Tuesday night. And owners of the Battlefield Hardline Ultimate Edition on PS4 are currently unable to play the new Criminal Activity expansion.

Update 2: Sony updated the PSN status page at 3 p.m. PDT, but did not provide any new information.