http://www.nebagram.co.uk/C227.jpg

Inspired in part by Oskar's Slidey 2x2x2 cube, this is a slidey puzzle that wraps top to bottom and left to right (ignore the equatorial track, it'd just make it too easy). What I'd love to know is, is it possible to swap the '16' pieces on opposite sides of the puzzles and have them in the correct orientation from all four possible starting positions (relative to each other)?

And would opposite 11s pose a significantly greater challenge?

So you want it to not twist, just slide, and the tiles slide to the other sides?

This can be a really interesting puzzle, if it is what I think it is. I haven't seen it done but it can very easily happen. The solution wouldn't be as tough as a twisty puzzle, but it still does bring the 15-puzzle to a new level.

Yep, basically. Got no experience or natural skill at puzzle design myself beyond scribbling it on a bit of paper so I'm just putting it out there if anyone wants to rip it off. I won't mind.

This is an idea that could very easily become reality. It is one of the designs that makes me wonder if there should be an "Adopt-a-Puzzle" thread for thinkers without the design experience...