If I steal something without being seen, does the game know?

[KingsGambit]

In Skyrim, a Riften guard could identify an apple stolen from Markarth. I've just started Elex and arrived at the first town and as is customary in any RPG with items that aren't nailed down I've begun the Quest for More Loot. But can NPCs identify stolen goods? I've tried googling and searching this forum without an answer.

I ask because I just walked into a store and found a named sword, unobserved against a wall. Can I equip it in front of the merchant, or sell it back to them?

[Stryderunknown]

I've not had any problems reselling stuff that's lifted from nearby as long as I wasn't spotted. If they spot you it usually results in direct confrontation which either =ENDs= in your death or a further escalation to murder etc.

[v0]

Originally posted by KingsGambit:

In Skyrim, a Riften guard could identify an apple stolen from Markarth. I've just started Elex and arrived at the first town and as is customary in any RPG with items that aren't nailed down I've begun the Quest for More Loot. But can NPCs identify stolen goods? I've tried googling and searching this forum without an answer.

I ask because I just walked into a store and found a named sword, unobserved against a wall. Can I equip it in front of the merchant, or sell it back to them?

afaict there's no item memory. much more permissive than eg skyrim or morrowind. if not caught in act you'll be fine except for like one or two cases :p

[KingsGambit]

Thank you all so much for the great help. I don't mind the stolen flags on unique items but flagging every sweetroll, wicker basket and other stuff was rubbish. Really appreciate the helpful answers.