Game region version [EU or what]: US/NTSC
Game update number [downloaded fixes]: 2.20
Firmware version: 3.40
Console version and harddrive size: Slim, 120GB
Custom soundtrack, yes or no: no
Controller type: Dualshock 3
Options settings: All Defaults
Track [if any] where error occurs: n/a
Online/Offline: Online

I have the playstation store version of Wipeout HD Fury, not the Playstation Plus version. 2 PSN IDs are affected here:
akira_2_5_0_1 and ashuhleigh .

When selecting "online", screen flashes "Connecting..." for a few seconds and then displays "an error occurred while contacting the server".

Note: when I created a brand new PSN ID afterward, I was able to get right in without trouble on the same console and network... then back to same error when I returned to original PSNIDs. I have far less than 50 PSN friends if it makes a difference at this juncture.

Oddly, If I receive an invite from a friend, they show in the live game data feed at the bottom of the screen. I can see their name, and their current status/track, and also in the "community" list, but if I try to connect to them, I am kicked back to the main menu. The "Select" button option for "Community" also seems to randomly disappear and reappear from the bottom of the main menu while no input is being made. Have not been able to connect for six days running - major bummer enjoymentwise. Thanks for reading