Aqueous zinc-manganese batteries (ZMBs) are regarded as strong candidates for grid-scale energy storage due to their low cost, safety, and environmental friendliness. However, traditional ion-intercalation zinc-manganese batteries (IZMBs) are limited by single-electron transfer, with a theoretical specific capacity of only approximately 308 mAh g-1. Moreover, long-term ion intercalation/deintercalation leads to cathode lattice stress accumulation and structural collapse, resulting in poor cycling stability. Electrolytic zinc-manganese batteries (EZMBs), based on a two-electron Mn2+/MnO2 deposition-dissolution reaction, achieve a high theoretical specific capacity of 616 mAh g-1 and avoid lattice distortion and structural collapse through a 'dynamic reconstruction' mode. In the future, it is essential to establish a collaborative design framework for cathodes, anodes, and electrolytes, develop intelligent electrolyte systems and multifunctional integrated electrode structures, and leverage artificial intelligence to accelerate material screening and mechanistic understanding. At the device level, 'dual-free' configurations and lean electrolyte technologies are expected to enhance energy density, while unified testing and evaluation standards are crucial for promoting industrialization.