Slick2D is a simple set of tools wrapped around the LWJGL OpenGL binding for Java. It's aims are as follows:

• Provide a simple 2D API
• Make transition from Java2D to OpenGL easier
• Enable distribution via WebStart without the complexity
• Provide the tools required for most simple games out of the box
• Extensible framework for flexibility
• Mix and Match - you use what you want, nothing is enforced.
• Help with rendering, sound, input, collision and anything else we can think of.

Here are some things we're explicitly not doing and why:

• Abstracting the rendering method (i.e. Java2D or OpenGL). With the advent of LWJGL Applets, it's a waste of time and just makes things more complicated.
• Take over your development - where would the fun be if the library just forced you to do everything it's way?
• Fix everything - there will always be challenges in games development.
• Move to 3D eventually.