Buffets are sit down restaurants, just the food isn't served to you, you have to go get it.
So yes, ressies need to be made so you don't run the risk of not getting in.
Yes, you need reservations for the buffets, especially for character buffets and peak mealtimes.
The Swan resort has restaurant called Garden Grove that has a character buffet (dinner every night and character breakfast twice a week) that does not accept reservations and is not on the dining plan, so it might be easier to get into if you are not using the plan.
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