Reasonable development and utilization of wave energy as a useful supplementary way to resolve the energy crisis has a great significance for energy structure adjustment. Due to increasing attention on energy security insurance, ecological environment protection, and climate change adaptation, various works have been performed in this area. However, compared with the other renewable energies, more research is required on reliability, security, or overall cost. The purpose of this study is to review of current research status and challenge for direct-drive wave power take-off system especially for our research group, and some suggestions are given in the conclusion section to accelerate the advancement of the wave power take-off industry. The advantages and disadvantages of various devices are summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]