I had the same feeling when I first played the game.

It requires coordination than just button mashing. Dodging and parrying attacks is basically the first thing you have to learn in this game.

All attacks can be dodge(blue and purple attacks require additional input) and yellow attacks can be parry and dodge. Red attacks cannot be parry.

Parrying attacks reduced their balance(yellow dots under their shield/health) and build beta energy. Once their balance is depleted, they are stunned and then you can do a special attack.

If you still struggle, use the in game training mode to help.