Help with game dev. in Java.

Hello! My name is Tyler, I am a coder/gamer/computer security guy, yeah, I'm only 15, but I know a lot when it comes to computers and security, but I have recently wanted to start Java game development, I am reading lots of Java books right now, I just have a few questions to ask. First is, what do you think is better for this kind of stuff, Netbens or Java eclipse. Second, what should I make my game characters/environment in(Like, art wise, such as Maya, or what? And Lastly, what is better for advanced Java Game Development, c++ or Java, I like Java more, it is easy for me, but, I want what is best for this kind of thing.

First of all, welcome to our community

For Java programming, I'd suggest using Eclipse, best one I've used so far.
If you're into game developing, I'd suggest studying C++ since its basic and you have way more options if you study it.

I have studied Java and I couldn't do much but programming a Sonic game for Java-supporting mobile phones and such things, which is really much work on graphics and it can get real messy and buggy if you mess up by a bit (on timers etc.). Also notice, the graphic won't get much better than sonic's 2D.
Java is easier indeed (in my opinion), but less useful for programming other programs but basic games.

for any further questions, you may always contact me in private