does SDL require X window system for video work?
 

does SDL require an X window system for using video?

not if you build it with aalib
just remember it will look like $h!t

or cacalib

is X11 a window system?

yes it is the most basic windows system.
why do you ask? do you have a *n?x system that has no windowing system?

i'm using zen core, completely command line. i'd rather not use a desktop at this point, i like the commandline challenge.

SDL will use the framebuffer if available.