I don't think SDL is suitable for typing a lot of info on screen.... but nevermind...
SDL_image is an extension for loading sdl surfaces from more image formats {png for example is very usefull becuse it compression and alpha tranparency}, the main SDL only load BMP's
I also recomend using imaging lib insted of SDL_imaged
check at
Vampyre Imaging Library
For a card game you should modify the SDLSpriteEngine, or better, make your own.
Do you have experiencie in programming?
{Hope i can help you with my poor english}
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