<h1 class="subject">What kind of software do I have to buy for sprite animation?</h1>

I tried to make sprite animations using pivot,ms paint, and then windows movie maker but it is so hard to make Luigi or mario walk smoothly or at all. I try for hours and no prevale. I look for free software but there isnt any. Is there software i could buy at Staples or any computer store. An experienced answer would be the best one right now. What do I have to buy?

Look into Adobe Fireworks. They probably have a free trail so you can know if it will work for you before you buy it.