Okay, I've been using DelphiX for sometime but I'd like to know more about DirectX and exactly whats going on behind the scenes.

I'm only interested in 2D games, no 3D at all, but everything DirectX related I've read (including the SDK I downloaded) is to do with 3D.

I thought I needed to use DirectDraw, not Direct3D, but the SDK suggests this is no longer being developed (?).

Anyway, my stupid question is this, what *exactly* do I need to write my own 2D games (with the latest DirectX) with? Do I use Direct3D but ignore everything 3D related?

I'm confused. All I want to do is duplicate what I've been doing easily with DelphiX's components but with the latest DirectX and understanding whats going on. Plus be able to play MP3 and MID files etc.

Can someone point me in the right direction please!?