Call of Duty: Black Ops 6’s omnimovement has added new dimensions to the franchise's classic gameplay. Among these is a creative feature that’s stirring up multiplayer matches: The Body Shield.

With Body Shield, you can take enemies as hostages, using them as human shields when you’re out of cover. It’s also an opportunity for brief interactions with your captive, creating some humorously memorable moments for both sides.

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Tactically, the Body Shield move doesn’t make a major gameplay impact. It’s tricky to pull off and only lasts a few seconds due to the game’s fast pace. Still, it’s a fun addition worth trying. Here’s how to perform Call of Duty: Black Ops 6’s new Body Shield move on all platforms.

The Body Shield Move Explained

In Black Ops 6, Body Shield is a new tactical move for taking hostages. When activated, you grab the enemy from behind, mount your gun on their shoulder, and use them as a human shield. The hostage absorbs incoming damage, giving you a temporary health boost.

The Body Shield lasts up to 15 seconds but can be cut short if the hostage’s teammates intervene. This feature debuted during Black Ops 6’s multiplayer reveal, quickly sparking fan interest. However, players are currently debating whether it’s genuinely useful or simply a quirky addition to shake up gameplay.

How to Perform the Body Shield Move

body shield inpputs in black ops 6.

Platform

Body Shield Input

PC

Double-tap V

PlayStation

Double-tap R3

Xbox

Double-tap RS

On PC, initiate the Body Shield move by double-pressing the V button, while Xbox and PlayStation players can double-tap the RS and R3 buttons, respectively. Just ensure you’re positioned behind the enemy to perform the move.

The Body Shield prompt works similarly to Executions. If you sneak up behind an enemy, you’ll see prompts for both Execution and Body Shield, as both use the melee button. Holding the button performs an Execution, while double-tapping activates Body Shield.

Body Shield Buttons on Tactical Controller Setups

If you're using tactical controller settings, you may need to press the B button on Xbox or the Circle on PlayStation to perform the Body Shield move. If unsure, check your key bindings to confirm your melee attack button, then double-tap it to activate Body Shield.

How to Kill the Hostage

While using an enemy as a human shield, you have two options: Quick Kill or Execute. Tapping the melee button once (RS on Xbox, R3 on PlayStation, and V on PC) quickly takes out the enemy with a short animation. Holding the button triggers a Finishing Move with a longer animation.

Keep in mind that other players' bullets might still kill the hostage. However, you cannot shoot them with your mounted gun.

Things You Should Know About Body Shields

Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions about Body Shields in Black Ops 6:

  • What happens when the Body Shield timer runs out? After 15 seconds, your operator will automatically eliminate the hostage by breaking their neck, not by shooting them.
  • Can the hostage escape? Yes, if the hostage taker falls or enters water, the hostage can escape.
  • Can the hostage’s teammates save them? Yes, if enemies eliminate the hostage taker within fifteen seconds, the hostage survives.
  • Can you hear the hostage taker’s voice? Proximity chat activates automatically during the hostage-taking, allowing the two players to communicate.
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Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 Tag Page Cover Art
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6
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9 /10
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Released
October 25, 2024
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WHERE TO PLAY

SUBSCRIPTION
DIGITAL
PHYSICAL
Checkbox: control the expandable behavior of the extra info

ESRB
Mature 17+ // Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Suggestive Themes, Strong Language, Use of Drugs
Developer(s)
Treyarch, Raven Software
Publisher(s)
Activision
Engine
IW 9.0
Multiplayer
Online Multiplayer, Online Co-Op
Cross-Platform Play
Yes - PlayStation, Xbox, PC
Cross Save
Yes - PlayStation, Xbox, PC
Franchise
Call of Duty
Number of Players
1-4
Steam Deck Compatibility
Unknown
PC Release Date
October 25, 2024
Xbox Series X|S Release Date
October 25, 2024
PS5 Release Date
October 25, 2024
Genre(s)
FPS
How Long To Beat
8 Hours
X|S Optimized
Yes
File Size Xbox Series
216 GB (October 2024)
OpenCritic Rating
Strong