Long version:

The God of War series shows remarkable depth in its combat system. The seemingly random button mashing, when examined closer, turns into a series of intricate attack combinations over which an experienced player can have full control.

Every attack launched requires a tactical decision in balancing its speed, power and reaction time, as well as its ability to "flow into" following strikes to create special combos.

While it's certainly possible to finish the game (on Normal anyway) using only your beloved square button, it is infinitely more rewarding to learn and eventually master the power of the triangle, circle, cross and shoulderpads.

Short version:

U sux.