Since limited energy density and intrinsic safety issues of commercial lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), solid-state batteries (SSBs) are promising candidates for next-generation energy storage systems. However, their practical applications are restricted by interfacial issues and kinetic problems, which result in energy density decay and safety failure. This review discusses the formation mechanisms of these issues from the perspective of typical solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) and provides an overview of recent advanced anode engineering for SSBs based on representative anodes including Li metal, graphite-based, and Si-based anodes, summarizing the advantages and problems of each strategy. The development of the anode-free batteries concept is demonstrated as well. Finally, recommendations are proposed for the potential directions in future research in anode engineering for SSBs.