By direct, do you mean being honest in your approach?
(Example : "Hi, my name is ___. I thought you look cute so I wanted to introduce myself")
If so, then you're right. I've never used any pick up line or canned opener before. I rarely get denied when I go for a number close too. Sometimes I even try to get denied like this site teaches and approach a girl that doesn't look like she'd be into me, but the girl gives me her number anyways haha. Most of the time it's no reply, but who cares.
But the direct approach works much better because you're being honest and up front with your intentions. You're not beating around the bush, you're telling the girl "Hey, you're sexy, let's date. I don't care if you think me approaching you is creepy."
Pretty much true confidence, indirect game seems like a pvssy way out.