Is there anyway to meet the bands with a regular ticket?

It's honestly up to the bands themselves as to how social they are. I dare say that all bands will make themselves accessible at various points during the weekend including Blind Guardian on Thursday night. It's a shame that their schedule is not going to give them much time otherwise.

I will say that all of the bands have formal autograph sessions (lasting 30 mins+) and they will be seen at various vendor tables, bars, etc.

The Gold Badge pre-party guarantees you meeting the bands that show up that first hour. After that is up to the bands to decide if they wish to stick around and party with the fans. I would assume their decision will be on how well the fans treat them and not overwhelm them.

Glenn