I'm running (another) new group of players in Arcanis (this one likely only a one-shot). One player is far more interested in the setting and story (more from a world-perspective than a specific story arc).

Can anyone recommend a module that does a good job of showcasing the setting and story (likely with fewer combats)? These are 1.1 characters but I'm fine with fudging stat blocks if the module doesn't include 1.1 stats.

Whenever I start a group out, I always start with A1-SP1 Whispers of the Gods because it is a simple enough adventure combat-wise to be a good introduction, followed by A2-SP2 Dry Rain. I would love to say that you should start with the HP's, but the first pair of HP's in the Crusade Arc weren't the best introduction to the universe and were among Henry's weaker efforts (sorry, and they got much better!).

There are also the Intro Mods, but I will admit that I really have very little experience with them so I cannot say one way or another if they are better. Failing that, A2-SP2 Elements of Faith, A1-SP12 Thousand Words, and A1-SP14 In Darkness Light are much better story-related adventures, but off the top of my head I'm not sure how good they'd be for 1.1's.

I personally really liked the first two hardpoints, and without getting into spoilers, I think the decision players have to make at the end of HP1-2 is the epitome of what I love about this setting.

I agree with Akira on this one. We just played Hardpoint 2 with a brand new player and it was fun seeing how he reacted to the decision we made. He was not happy about it. Gotta love moral dilemmas.

I will agree that the final decision was perfectly in tune with Arcanis. Actually, HP2 was overall a very good mod, I simply think that the HP1/HP2 plotline was the weakest plotline in the Crusade. It is probably just me viewing it through the same goggles that many view Season 1 of a new TV show: You have to introduce the characters, so you can't have crazy plotlines.

I would recommend Judgement...which was HP 1-8.

Basic murder mystery but invokes the major figures of Milandir, the crusade, Heroes of Light, Ymandragore ... and everyone's favorite strangler. Watch out for his large sweaty gnome hands! My favorite standard HP of the Crusade Arc. Dark Face of War stands out in the soft points for Crusade politics.

In the current arc of modules ... What Lies Beneath, Hde & Seek & Heaven Bickers are all good mods that showcase important elements of the world.