They eventually returned. Received this from PP at 4.20AM:
"Hi Tim,
I apologize for the delayed answer. I just opened the lobby and I see a lot of available tables on the $22 USD and $33 USD limits. If you are no able to see the games you might consider reinstalling. My suggestion is to try and open a game from the "Instant play" - the non-downloadable version on
http://www.PartyPoker.com.
I wish you best of luck and in case we can help with anything else or you need any other information we are available 24/7 by e-mail and phone.
Kind regards,
Tina
VIP Team"
I find it annoying that it's clear from the forums that there
was a problem, but instead of finding out what it was and looking into it, they just go: 'seems ok now'...