HD Rumble seems to be some pretty interesting tech that could have some very intriguing applications for gaming- it is, basically, extremely high fidelity, localized haptic feedback, that can even duplicate different sensations.A version of this is already used by Apple in their iPhones, to power their 3D Touch and Taptic Engine functionality.
Unfortunately, however, it seems like this new tech will not be used by the star game in the launch lineup for the Nintendo Switch. Speaking to Gamesblog, Zelda producer Eiji Aonuma confirmed that Breath of the Wild does not support HD Rumble functionality on the Switch version- given that the game was developed as a multiplatform game, it does not utilize any platform specific features on either system.
This actually falls in line with Aonuma’s explanations for the game’s lack of second screen support in the Wii U version, and his general sentiment for trying to maintain gameplay parity between the Wii U and Switch versions of the game- so I’d say it checks out. Still, it’s a bit disappointing- hopefully in the next Zelda game, one that will inevitably be made for the Switch, they can utilize the tech.