The world of niche luxury fragrance just got a whole lot more strategic. Mind Games, the conceptual house that masterfully fuses the intellectual complexity of chess with the emotional depth of perfumery, has teamed up with the iconic London retailer Selfridges to launch two new, highly anticipated scents: Kingside and Queenside.
These two Extrait de Parfums—part of the “Perfumer Extraordinaire Collection”—are more than just perfumes; they are a sensory exploration of duality, power, and presence, available exclusively in the UK through Selfridges.
A Study in Olfactory Strategy: Kingside & Queenside
Mind Games is renowned for naming its fragrances after strategic elements of chess, and these two exclusives embody the quiet strength of the King and the commanding elegance of the Queen. They are complementary forces, designed for those who appreciate scent as a nuanced, layered, and utterly unforgettable experience.
Kingside: Quietly Magnetic
Kingside is the embodiment of understated power. It captures the decisive moments of the game with a scent profile that is both grounded and unexpectedly vibrant.
| Note | Description |
| Opening | Pistachio, Cardamom, Grapefruit |
| Heart | Hazelnut, Peony |
| Base | Tonka Bean, Peru Balsam |
Kingside offers a gourmand and woody experience. The initial zest of grapefruit and spicy cardamom is softened by the creamy, nutty notes of pistachio and hazelnut, creating a magnetic, warm, and addictive scent that is perfect for cooler weather and intimate evenings.
Queenside: Elegant and Commanding
Queenside is a tribute to the most powerful piece on the board—a fragrance that demands attention with effortless grace. It is a bold move, full of intoxicating presence.
| Note | Description |
| Opening | Cassis, Pear, Lychee |
| Heart | Geranium, Violet, Lily of the Valley |
| Base | Oakmoss, Patchouli |
Queenside delivers a Chypre, floral, and fruity profile. The rich, juicy opening of cassis and lychee quickly melts into a complex floral heart, anchored by the earthy, sophisticated depth of oakmoss and patchouli. It is elegant, bright, and undeniably commanding—a perfect signature scent.
The Art of the Extrait de Parfum
As part of the brand’s luxury line, both Kingside and Queenside are formulated as Extrait de Parfums. This means they boast a higher concentration of fragrance oils than a standard Eau de Parfum, guaranteeing:
- Exceptional Longevity: These scents are designed to last, offering a rich experience that evolves throughout the day.
- Intense Projection: The higher concentration ensures the scent leaves a memorable, luxurious trail.
- Signature Craftsmanship: Each 100mL bottle is presented in the brand’s distinctive, sculptural flacon—a piece of art worthy of display.
Mind Games is also enriching the purchase experience by including two concentrated ingredient vials with each bottle, allowing the wearer to deepen their olfactory experience and truly understand the raw materials that compose their chosen fragrance.
