[Squinky]

Nice survey!

Generally speaking, I prefer the single cursor the most, because it makes for a far more immersive feel when there are fewer UI elements on the screen. The only exception, in my view, would be if you're deliberately trying to create a nostalgic throwback feel in your game, in which case, you should feel free to use the kind of interface used in the classic games you're trying to create a homage to.

When it comes to the number of verbs, I think having only one is perfectly fine, particularly when most of the objects you can click on only do, in fact, have a "look at" option. Having more is usually argued to "make the game harder", but I think it only makes it more redundant, and would personally prefer if more of the gameplay revolved around doing things with the objects themselves (or better yet, characters) than around guessing the right verb.

Finally, choosing between a third-person narrator, a protagonist who thinks to him/herself, and one who actually talks to him/herself is completely up to you. Just pick an option that actually fits with the mood of your game.