Its very important to know that there are a great many forms of Buddhism. Each emphisis different aspects of Buddhas teachings.
I practice Zen Buddhism, It is not thought as a religion, but as a philosophical understanding, toward becoming one with the all.
Buddha did not believe in neither a god(s) nor in a human soul.
He did believed in re-incarnation and Karma, but did not put allot on emphisis on them. His teachings are focused on the living in the here and now! In being mind-full of the present moment, and that only the now exists.
AXE!
I like Buddhism, but it requires too much of an individual. I'd rather go to my alter and do the necessary ritual work to bring about change in my life, as opposed to constantly chanting.
Both are equally effective, but the former is a lot easier, and maybe even quicker.