My first suggestion is "don't use C++." I started learning C++ about 13 years ago, and has never set well with me. For making simple games, there are much easier languages and frameworks to start with. Check out
PyGame for a perfect example; it's
Python (programming language) +
SDL (graphics, audio, and input library with hardware acceleration) + many library functions to create your own game engine. Or you can download additional game engines or frameworks from the site. Whatever works best!
I started looking at PyGame recently as a means of doing rapid game prototyping. At least to validate crazy ideas before actually tackling them.
Another option is JavaScript + Canvas (HTML5) and a slew of JS game engines:
https://github.com/bebraw/jswiki/wiki/Game-EnginesWhatever you do, stay far away from C++.