C++ game using library or game engine?

C++ game using library or engine?

I am a beginner so please bear with me. I want to make a 2d top view game for my uni project and at least 70% c++ is requirement. I am trying/using sfml for now(am currently following tutorials instead of jumping in right now).

But am confused that is sfml the best option for this?

I think game engine would be easier for what I want and level designing would be much easier with an engine.

I want some advice as should I continue with sfml or cocos2d or godot with c++ would be easier? As c++ is a requirement so can't use unity and have heard that unreal is not a good option for simple 2d?

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