It really depends!

If you want an easy route and learn Ogre: just forget about the 2D.
3D is a lot easier and intuitive. Modern, like Ogre.
Load up robot.mesh and you have your character. Add some terrain, a couple of trees...
Maybe use NxOgre to add a little physics?
Study the examples, read the Wiki ...

For 2D things like HUDS, etc -> use CEGUI!

If you want just simple text, use overlays.
Billboards is an option, too - but a bit more involved.

OK.
If you really want to go the 2D route, take a look at what the Daimonin guys did:

But, be warned: this is not easy stuff - so start with 3D.