Dolphin, the GameCube and Wii emulator - Forums

I dont have a game controller, can I use my keyboard?

Yes, you can

But depending on which type of game to be played it can be quite tricky to use a keyboard at some parts, recommended for better gaming experience is a game controller.
Game controllers for PC is cheap today and it's so much comfy and relaxing sitting in a couch and not have to rely on a keyboard right in front of the screen.

I use a Saitek P2600 Rumble controller, bought it 2006 for the Jedi Knight series and now using it for Dolphin.
It's one of the best buy's I have made that have lasted long, usually PC game pads is considered to be of low quality.

My advise is, buy a good game controller that you feel confident with, it pay's off in the long run if you're going to play a lot.

how do i enable it to use the keyboard then?

You choose the keyboard in the device list.

Kinda like this: