Is there any reason why this thread isn't stickied yet? I think it will be useful to a lot of people.

I've got a quick question: How do the terms Neutral and Counter Pick differ? I know that Neutral means the map in, for the most part, well balanced, and I know banned stages can't be played, but where do counter picks fit in that?

I don't understand why Bridge of Eldin is banned on a lot of lists. From what I've heard, walk-offs are not a big deal in Brawl, and I've never had a problem with the pig riding guy or the breaking middle of the map. Both are very, very easy to dodge and don't hurt anything, certainly nothing bannable. Bride of Eldin should at least be a Counter Pick.