Optimal first turn play would involve Dark Ritual, a 2 cmc creature and Thrull Retainer. Alley Grifters works wonders too as it’s likely to be unblocked for quite some time. Chime of Night serves a similar purpose while Paralyze and First Strikes clear out opposition.

Blood Pets, Ebon Strongholds and Peat Bog supplement the Rituals although the latter two can lead to missing T1 play.

Low cmc means that Grafted Skullcap should rarely backfire in the lategame. Lack of noncreature ways to win the game is a weakness. Painful and Agonizing Memories could be used to uphold board advantage.