I was thinking about getting an NES Classic due to me not having a 3DS for VC, and the Wii Shop closing the feature to add points to buy games. What I am asking is that is it better money wise to get an NES Classic than buy an NES and the game.

From what I recall, NES classic runs at a slightly slower framerate and has a bit of input lag. I personally would recommend running on emulator until you feel it's necessary and until you know you are going to be dedicated to running the game to buy an NES and then go out and purchase one if you so choose.

^^^^^^^ exactly what he said. Emulator first (I recommend NESTopia) then when you are ready purchase an NES

You can get a real nes brick and use a usb adapter with emulators as well to make it similar to console.

As someone who learned Any% initially on an NES Classic I can tell you that it’s possible but when you transition to an actual NES you will need to rework all timings as the input delay is significant (as everyone else here has said). That being said, if anyone reading this already has a Classic and is thinking about using it, know that it is possible and if you’re anti-PC emulation for any reason it’s a good substitute.

My biggest tip would be to use a Wii Classic controller in port 2 for its “Home” button to access the save state load menu more easily than hitting the reset button and possibly damaging the console.

I will say that once you switch over to emulation or real NES that you don’t go back to the Classic as switching back and fourth will just becoming frustrating. Trust me on this one :)