The Shield is based on the popular police drama produced by Fox Television Studios and airing on the FX Network. Described as "a knockdown, drag'em-out brawler", the game will feature several actors' voices from the show, including Michael Chiklis as Detective Vic Mackey.

The Shield follows Detective Vic Mackey and the rest of the Elite Strike Team special police unit as they struggle to keep the streets of Los Angeles safe. As Vic, the player will engage in true-to-life police work, such as busting crack dens, thwarting bank robberies, taking down gang bangers, and apprehending serial killers. In addtion, in order to succeed, players will have to resort to operating "outside the rules" by using brute force, accepting bribes, and holding incriminating information over other police officers.