You need one to get the job(s) you want, right or wrong.
You can argue the value, or lack thereof, of degrees and certifications all you want, but that doesn't affect the simple fact that it's how the world operates.
Get yourself some of them Norm, you'll a) feel good about getting them (never underestimate the power of THAT) and b) make yourself more attractive to employers.
Oh, and by the way, don't blame the HR departments, they conduct their job searches based on the criteria specified by the hiring manager.