Honestly, I'll say this: Laban always say like stupid crap about KOF13 that is not like 98/02 etc. and I know someone (He's a big name player and I'll keep it quiet) has also said that KOF 13 is not a true KOF game but he still plays because it's fun and the game is still growing which it's why he's still playing. Honestly imo (Don't get me wrong or anything I don't hate Laban, I'm down to play 98/02 with him if I get the chance) He should just stop whiny about it which could be a turn off to other people who might wanna play the game especially in his area where there's a few people playing.
But on another note, he has done great tutorial videos about KOF 13 by going more in depth with the basic/alt guarding/rules of 2 & 3 etc which its really helpful alot for a low level player like myself
About America's style vs Cafeid's style, I believe the meta game is changing where HD combo is slowly become a less powerful option at a certain level of play. For example Shen, if he's loaded with full hd and 2 meters or whatever, as long that you're defending Down Bs and jump in attacks really well, there's not much shen can do since he's not hitting you for an hd and had to go for a overhead -> Drive Cancel -> whatever -> EX Super. Plus there's the part about baiting/spacing etc comes into play. I think a few examples to watch is Post EVO Reynald vs Luis Cha at the recent Super Arcade Tournament, Kaoru vs Mr KOF at EVO 2012 Day 0, Bala/Romance/Reynald vs Mad KOF or Bala vs Lacid at Season Beating.
other than that I'm done with my /rant! Sorry!