yea, i forgot to add
EX bursts are banned, as they are simply too strong overall.
also, EX Guard is legal, but EX Counter is not. (meaning, you can go into ex mode while being combo'd to interrupt your opponents combo, but you are not allowed to retaliate immediately). This rule prevents people from just stocking their EX Gauge, and simply ex countering any form of attack, which would guarantee an HP attack, along with an EX burst, easily enough to kill your opponent in virtually all circumstances.
From what i've seen, different characters have dramatically different strats. most Zidanes ive seen go for that aerial brv-to-HP combo all match, merely chipping away until they die, while Squall/Kefka players I've seen merely rip into you with bravery attacks until they can kill you with 1 well placed HP move.
also, i can play during the weekdays of this week if you guys are down. I think Frederick, MD is a good mid way point if you guys wanna do that restaurant thing, its about 45 mins from me.