Research and development of innovative energy storage and conversion devices are being actively pursued, such as supercapacitors, metal- air batteries, fuel cells, redox flow batteries, and rechargeable batteries using ions other than lithium ions as carrier ions. This review describes in detail the advantages and disadvantages of magnesium rechargeable batteries using magnesium ions as carrier ions. In addition, the key points of electrolyte development are explained. Furthermore, the progress and future challenges of electrolyte research, one of the most important elements of magnesium rechargeable batteries, are discussed in detail. 2021 The Japan Institute of Metals and Materials.