Abstract: A variety of batteries are provided having a sulfur-containing cathode; a metal anode; and an electrolyte between the cathode and the anode, wherein the electrolyte is capable of solvating metal ions produced from the metal anode, polysulfide species produced from the sulfur containing cathode, and dissolved oxygen species. In some aspects, the batteries include a separator separating the battery into a cathode region nearest the cathode and an anode region nearest the anode, wherein the separator permits permeability of the electrolyte and the metal ions. Methods of using and batteries are also provided. In some aspects, the batteries are capable of charge/discharge cycles in excess of 10, 100, or 1000 cycles.