There are several shield types in Dragon Age: Origins: * Bucklers are small circular shields. They offer only little protection, but have no fatigue penalty and low strength requirements. They go well with a more offensive use of the Weapon and Shield talents. * Targes are large circular shields that have higher defensive bonuses than Bucklers, but also apply a fatigue penalty. * Kite shields have a triangular shape and offer even more protection, but have even more fatigue as tradeoff. * Heavy shields are square-shaped and have the highest defensive bonuses while also requiring more Strength to equip and giving a large fatigue penalty. They are the recommended choice for tanking party members.