In my experience, Burda patterns are not more difficult to sew, but, because they often leave off seam allowances, incorporate multiple sizes within one pattern, and sometimes have minimal instructions, they can pose a bit of a problem for people who need careful, step-by-step, hand-holding when they sew.
A number of Burda patterns are also now delivered through downloads from their website. Piecing together numerous sheets of paper can also be an issue for some people.
Having said all that, I actually like Burda patterns because their cuts and draping can be more interesting than most North American sewing patterns. Almost all of the Burda items that I've sewn have become favorites and garnered lots of compliments along the lines of "where did you BUY that" instead of "did you MAKE that". I also think that good fabric choices would be quite important with these minimalist styles.
Maybe it's time to spend a bit more time with my sewing machine again.
