Hi everyone! In first place, sorry for my english, it isn't very good.

I'm currently starting a project with a friend of mine. We want to develop a classic 2D action side-scroller game.

Since we are just two, some compromises need to be taken. We are going to use retro style graphics (easier to make and we don't have a dedicated artist). And for example, i'm working with the early programming (prototyping), doing the art, and ocassionally doing some tunes with my electric guitar. We are taking the first steps on this journey.

I already spent some time learning about free API's, libraries and stuff. There are some interesting, others are a bit overwhelming to a relatively simple project. The technical requirements of this project are basic, sprite manipulation, sound/music playing and overall 2D capabilities.

The only special thing i'm looking for is portability. I want to target Win/Linux/Mac platforms, and maybe, Android and iOS through a "friendly" port (i hope!).

I'm exploring Java with the native 2D capabilities, and SDL with C++. I'm a little concerned with the 2D performance of Java, i'm not sure if it is efficient enough for a game. And i'm worried with the portability on C++ with SDL, and the man-hours of coding for such a small team.

At this time, i'm a bit confused, and it is hard to take a decision to move on.

So I'm asking for your help, a much more experienced people than me, what libraries, API's, etc. i should really consider for this project, any insights will be helpful.

Best regards!

im not sure.. what good languange or libraries for beginner

but if you want to build in many platform try monogame is easy to use but it use C# languange and XNA framework..

im still beginner too.. just learn the basic algoritms a and you will okay with your journey..

early programming (prototyping), doing the art, and ocassionally doing some tunes with my electric guitar

but you so awesome can do music and art too.

just my opinion learn how to design a flow diagram.. it will easy you to design before you actually programming..

sorry for my english

It was really helpful to hear from you, I will try and mess around with some tools you suggested.

I guess I'll focus first on the design of the game, and then start the implementation. Everyone says that, it must be way to go. Mainly to avoid many many errors and wasted work.

Thanks for the replies!