Can Torque 3D allow me use 2D sprites?

Hi I am looking at either getting Torque 3D or 2D for a top down shooting game (think R-Type). I was wanting to have the levels in 3D (for example flying through space ships, canyons and asteroids) but the player(s) and enemies as 2D sprites as I don't feel confident enough I could currently make interesting enough, and well animated, 3D player models.

Is this possible and difficult, or am I best sticking with Torque 2D. I was hoping it wouldn't be too difficult if possible as I feel in the future Torque 3D may open up more for me.