DCUO's new shield weapon based on The Guardian

Although it's well timed to capitalise on the blockbuster adventures of another shield-carrying superhero, DC Universe Online's new weapon is actually inspired by a somewhat obscure character.

Speaking to PC Gamer, director Jens Andersen proved his comics shops by name-dropping one of the DC Universe's less well-known figures.

"The character that it was modeled after is named The Guardian. He was created by Jack Kirby in 1942, so he’s been around for a long time," Andersen noted.

"The Guardian is a super soldier, with superior strength, speed, endurance and regeneration. He wields an indestructible shield and is a master of hand to hand combat.

"The coolest part of the character is that he is a clone, and when one version of The Guardian dies, it’s replaced by another clone. This process has been going on for decades. I think people would really like the character if they checked him out and I hope we see more of him in the comics in the years to come."

The shield can be used as a melee weapon as well as having a ranged attack, and differs markedly from other shield-bearing set ups.

"It is all board and no sword," the director said.

The shield can be used in any part of DC Universe Online, but will be released as part of the PvP-focussed DLC pack The Last Laugh, expected on PC and PlayStation 3 in June.