One of the most infamous and controversial items in Call of Duty is the Riot Shield. Some love it. Some hate it. Well, it’s back in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4, but with a few key changes.
With MW4’s beta now live, we’re seeing the game in action and learning more about it. This includes new details on the Riot Shield, including how it’s now destructible. Not only that, but the new Riot Shield can be placed on the ground to allow players to create their own cover, wherever they are. What’s more, the Riot Shield is now unlocked as a field upgrade as opposed to occupying a weapon slot.
The Riot Shield has a new job.
Place it. Hold your ground. Make your own cover.
And yes, it can be destroyed. pic.twitter.com/cO9CcdJInz
— Infinity Ward (@InfinityWard) August 21, 2026
“In use, the shield provides frontal protection while advancing or holding a position. It can also be used offensively, with a new heavy melee attack that knocks enemies down and creates space in close quarters,” Activision said.
When planted in the ground, players can mount their weapons to it for improved stability. The Riot Shield can also be used strategically in MW4’s objective-based modes where players hunker down in one particular spot.
To balance things out, Activision made the Riot Shield destructible in MW4.
